The Spanish Government has called for an official investigation into the birthday celebration of FC Barcelona’s rising star, Lamine Yamal, following widespread public outcry over the nature of the event.
Yamal, who turned 18 on July 13, hosted a lavish, mafia-themed party attended by roughly 200 guests, including friends, family, and teammates. However, the celebration has come under fire after reports surfaced alleging the exploitation of individuals with dwarfism and the paid appearance of women based on specific physical criteria.
According to claims by social media influencer Claudia Calvo, the footballer allegedly invited 12 women selected for their breast size and hired people with dwarfism for entertainment purposes — a move that has sparked national outrage.
The Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism (ADEE) issued a statement condemning the event and has threatened both legal and social action, describing the act as degrading and in violation of ethical standards and disability rights.
“The ADEE… publicly denounces the hiring of people with dwarfism as part of the entertainment,” the organization stated. “We will pursue legal and social measures to defend the dignity of people with disabilities.”
Jesús Martín, General Director of Disability within the Spanish Government, urged ministers to authorize a full investigation. He also criticized the message such acts send to younger audiences who admire Yamal, stating that laws must apply equally to the wealthy and powerful.
Authorities are now exploring the possibility of levying a fine of up to €1 million (£867,000) against Yamal, pending the outcome of the probe.
