The Spanish government is calling for a formal investigation into Barcelona star Lamine Yamal’s controversial 18th birthday party, following allegations of exploitation involving individuals with dwarfism and the hiring of women based on specific physical attributes.
The backlash stems from claims made by social media model Claudio Calvo, who alleged that the rising Barcelona talent paid for 12 women with a certain breast size to attend his mafia-themed birthday celebration. The party, which took place on July 13, was attended by around 200 guests, including Yamal’s friends, family, and teammates.
The event has sparked outrage, particularly over reports that people with dwarfism were hired as part of the party entertainment. The Spanish government has now joined critics in demanding accountability, with officials calling for a substantial fine and a full investigation.
According to Marca, Yamal could face a financial penalty of up to £867,000. Jesús Martín, General Director of Disability in the Spanish government, is pushing for ministers to greenlight a probe into the incident.
“We are concerned that people with money and people with power believe themselves to be unpunished. The law is for everyone, for the humble and for the powerful,” Martín said.
He also expressed concern about the influence such actions could have on young fans who idolize Yamal, warning that it could set a dangerous precedent.
The Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism (ADEE) has also weighed in, threatening legal action and publicly denouncing the incident.
“The ADEE, a member organization of the Spanish Confederation of People with Physical and Organic Disabilities, condemns and publicly denounces the hiring of people with dwarfism as part of the entertainment at the recent 18th birthday party of soccer player Lamine Yamal,” the association stated.
“The Association announces that it will take legal and social action to safeguard the dignity of people with disabilities, considering that these actions violate not only current legislation but also the fundamental ethical values of a society that seeks to be egalitarian and respectful.”
