Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal, fresh off signing a blockbuster deal, celebrated his 18th birthday in a lavish mafia-and casino-themed party—only to spark fierce backlash over the hiring of entertainers with dwarfism.
Luxury Celebration, Lofty Stakes
Held on the weekend of July 12–13 at a €40,000/week countryside estate and possibly preceded in Ibiza, the celebration featured a no-phone policy and high-caliber performances by Spanish music stars. Yamal—sporting bleached hair, a white suit, cane, and flaunting a €615,000 “LY” necklace gifted by rapper El Alfa—posted a 60-second Instagram clip to his 36 million followers, though he hasn’t commented publicly on the ensuing controversy.
Backlash Over Dwarfism Entertainment
Spain’s ADEE (Association for People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias) condemned the use of people with dwarfism as party “entertainers,” labeling it degrading and akin to medieval spectacle. ADEE president Carolina Puente demanded legal action, citing violations of disability rights.
The Spanish government has formally requested a prosecutor’s investigation, and the disability office is reviewing whether Yamal breached laws prohibiting ridicule of persons with disabilities. If found guilty, the star could face fines of up to €1 million.
Voices from the Party
Among those criticized was a performer with dwarfism, who defended the event:
“We are not monkeys… We work in peace. I don’t understand why there’s so much hype.”
They emphasized the choice to participate was voluntary, professional, and respectful.
Rumours of ‘Image Girls’
Adding fuel to the fire, model Claudia Calvo (Miss Teenager Spain 2021) claimed influencers were selected based on “specific breast measurements,” offered €18,000–35,000, and barred from bringing mobile phones.
Social media critics denounced these practices as sexist and dehumanizing, particularly from someone idolized by young fans.
Investigation & Stakes
Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights is forwarding the case to legal authorities, including the Hate Crimes Office and Ombudsman. The ADEE has threatened a lawsuit, highlighting the absence of clear criminal penalties but pushing for reform to bracket such acts as “very serious,” with fines up to €1 million.
Yamal’s Silence Amid Tension
Yamal has stayed quiet publicly—beyond the celebratory Instagram clip—and now prepares to report for FC Barcelona’s preseason tour in Japan. The scandal threatens to overshadow his transition into adulthood and burgeoning career.
What seemed like a milestone celebration has become a lightning rod for crucial conversations on disability rights, dignity, and the ethical obligations of public figures.
The outcome of Spain’s legal and social review may set important precedents—both for Yamal’s legacy and broader societal norms.
