(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Lamine Yamal’s Birthday Celebration Under Investigation for Alleged Disability Law Violations
Barcelona and Spain forward Lamine Yamal is facing scrutiny following reports that his recent birthday celebration may have breached Spain’s disability rights laws. The issue centers around allegations that individuals with dwarfism were hired as entertainers at the event.
Birthday Event Raises Legal and Ethical Concerns
The celebration took place on July 13 at a private venue near Barcelona. Despite strict instructions for guests not to film or share footage, videos circulated on social media showing entertainers with dwarfism arriving at the party.
Spain’s Ministry for Social Rights has since requested an official inquiry into the matter. The Ministry has asked the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Ombudsman, and the Office for Combating Hate Crimes to investigate whether the event violated laws designed to protect the dignity of people with disabilities.
ADEE Condemns the Event
The Association for People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism (ADEE) publicly criticized the event. In a statement, the organization said the use of individuals with dwarfism for entertainment purposes “violates current laws and fundamental ethical values” and confirmed it would pursue legal and social action.
If the investigation confirms a breach of Spanish law, Lamine Yamal could face a fine of up to €1 million.
Performer Responds to Backlash
In response to the growing controversy, one of the performers involved spoke anonymously to RAC1, defending the work and criticizing the reaction.
“No one disrespected us; we were allowed to work in peace,” the performer said. “We’re normal people doing what we love in a legal and professional way.”
They further questioned the stance of ADEE, suggesting that the organization is attempting to limit employment opportunities for performers with dwarfism without providing viable alternatives.
No Official Comment from Lamine Yamal or Barcelona
Neither Lamine Yamal nor FC Barcelona has issued a public statement regarding the incident. The young football star returned to pre-season training on July 14, just a day after the party.
At just 18 years old, Yamal is already one of football’s brightest talents. Following a successful 2024-25 season, which saw Barcelona claim La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Supercopa, he is among the early contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.
Ongoing Legal Review
The investigation is still in its early stages, and any further action will depend on the outcome of the legal review. For now, the focus remains on understanding whether any regulations were violated and how such events are handled under Spanish law.
Barcelona’s first pre-season match is set for July 27, and while fans are eager to see Yamal back on the pitch, the attention surrounding the young star has now shifted beyond football.
