Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights has ordered a prosecutor-led investigation into the birthday party of 18-year-old Barcelona footballer Lamine Yamal, currently one of the top players in the world, after he reportedly hired people with dwarfism for “entertainment purposes.”
The party was attended by the footballer’s teammates, including Gavi, as well as celebrities from the music industry.
Yamal turned 18 on July 13 and celebrated his birthday with a private event in Olivella, about 50 kilometers west of Barcelona, where video recording was reportedly prohibited.
Lamine Yamal is among the contenders for the Ballon d’Or, the award for the best footballer in the world.
However, a video was published showing a group of people with dwarfism heading to the party, sparking public backlash.
The complaint was filed by the Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias (ADEE), which called Yamal’s actions unacceptable and offensive, stating that they “perpetuate stereotypes, fuel discrimination, and undermine the image and rights” of people with disabilities.
The association’s president also stressed that “in the 21st century, it is unacceptable for people with dwarfism to continue being used as entertainment at private parties. It is even more serious when public figures like Lamine Yamal are involved.”