Barcelona star Lamine Yamal is under investigation following a complaint over the presence of people with dwarfism as entertainers at his recent 18th birthday party. Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights confirmed on Tuesday that it has requested the prosecutor’s office to examine whether any laws were violated at the private celebration held in Olivella, near Barcelona.
The move follows a formal complaint by the Association for People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism (ADEE), which condemned the hiring of individuals with dwarfism for entertainment purposes. ADEE claims the practice “perpetuates stereotypes, fuels discrimination, and undermines the image and rights” of people with disabilities.
Yamal turned 18 on July 13, a day after the party, which drew teammates and celebrities including Argentine producer Bizarrap and singer Bad Gyal. Though guests were instructed not to film, a video surfaced online showing several performers with dwarfism arriving at the venue.
One of the entertainers, speaking anonymously on Catalan radio RAC1, defended their participation: “No one disrespected us. We worked in peace. We’re normal people doing what we love. This is legal work.” The performer accused ADEE of targeting their profession without offering alternative support or employment options.
The controversy has gained widespread attention partly due to Yamal’s high profile. The young forward recently signed a long-term contract with Barcelona, including a €1 billion release clause, and is considered a contender for the Ballon d’Or following a standout season in which he helped the club secure a domestic treble.
Yamal’s camp has not yet issued a statement in response to the allegations or the investigation.
