Investigation Launched Into Lamine Yamal’s Controversial Birthday Party

The Spanish government has initiated an investigation into footballer Lamine Yamal following allegations that he hired individuals with dwarfism for entertainment at his 18th birthday party. The event took place over the weekend and was attended by family, friends, and several of his FC Barcelona teammates. A video shared by Yamal on social media showed him mingling with guests, but subsequent claims have raised serious concerns about the nature of the celebrations.

The Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism (ADEE) accused Yamal of engaging in discriminatory practices by allegedly hiring people based on their physical characteristics. The organization has called for accountability, stating that such actions undermine the dignity of individuals with disabilities. The Spanish government is examining whether Yamal violated laws that prohibit performances that mock or demean people with disabilities, which have been in place for almost three years. If found culpable, he could face a fine of up to £867,000 (approximately $1.1 million).

Jesus Martin, the General Director for Disability Rights, expressed concern over the implications of Yamal’s actions. He emphasized that the law applies equally to all, stating, “We are concerned that people with money, people with power, believe themselves to be unpunished.” Martin also highlighted the potential influence of Yamal, a prominent figure with numerous followers, on young people, suggesting that such parties could normalize disrespectful attitudes towards individuals with disabilities.

Adding to the controversy, Claudio Calvo, a Spanish model, revealed that she was approached by the party organizers to invite her and other women to the event. Calvo alleged that she was instructed to recruit women based on specific physical attributes, such as hair color and breast size. She described the request as uncomfortable, stating, “They focused mainly on breast size or hair colour, whether they were blonde.”

Calvo, who has experience in the nightclub industry, mentioned that the organizers offered a substantial appearance fee of $17,500 (£12,975) for a 24-hour commitment, along with a credit card for expenses during the event. The party was reportedly held on a boat, and Calvo indicated that details regarding the location were kept secret until shortly before the event.

Yamal celebrated his milestone birthday surrounded by friends and family on the Mediterranean coast. He was joined by notable figures including teammates Gavi and Alejandro Balde, as well as influencers and musicians such as Bizarrap, Duki, Ozuna, and Bad Gyal.

The unfolding situation has raised serious questions about the responsibilities of public figures and the impact of their actions on societal norms. As the investigation proceeds, many will be watching closely to see the outcomes and any potential repercussions for Yamal and the party organizers.