Spanish football sensation Lamine Yamal is under scrutiny after his 18th birthday party allegedly featured entertainers with dwarfism—prompting a formal investigation by Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights.
The Barcelona star celebrated his milestone over the weekend with a lavish private event in Olivella, about 50 kilometres outside Barcelona. The event, attended by teammates and celebrities including music artists Bizarrap and Bad Gyal, has now attracted attention for more than just its guest list.
According to the ministry, the probe was triggered by a complaint from ADEE (the Association for People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism), which condemned the hiring of individuals with dwarfism for party entertainment.
ADEE said the practice “perpetuates stereotypes, fuels discrimination, and undermines the image and rights of people with disabilities.”
The ministry confirmed it has referred the matter to the public prosecutor’s office to determine whether any laws or disability rights were violated during the event.
Though guests were reportedly barred from filming the party, a leaked video showed several entertainers with dwarfism arriving at the venue. One of the performers, who spoke anonymously on Catalan radio station RAC1, defended their work.
“No one disrespected us. We were allowed to work in peace,” the performer said. “We’re normal people who dedicate ourselves to what we love doing, and it’s absolutely legal.”
The performer accused ADEE of attempting to restrict their livelihoods without offering alternatives. “This fuss is only happening because it was Lamine Yamal’s party.”
The group of entertainers reportedly danced, performed magic tricks, and served drinks during the celebration.
Dominican rapper Chimbala, who also performed at the event and is of short stature, shared a video on Instagram singing his hit “Abusadora” alongside Yamal, with Barça teammates Gavi and Alejandro Balde dancing nearby. “Thank you for inviting me to your birthday,” he wrote.
Yamal, widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents in world football, recently turned 18 on July 13. He played a key role in Barcelona’s domestic treble last season and is already being touted as a contender for the Ballon d’Or. He has not yet issued a public statement on the controversy.
