Lamine Yamal’s Birthday Party Sparks Controversy in Spain

Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights has requested an investigation regarding possible disability law violations at Lamine Yamal’s 18th birthday celebration — as reported by EFE.

The investigation request was directed to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, Spanish Ombudsman, and Office for Combating Hate Crimes — focusing on potential violations of laws prohibiting shows that mock or demean people with disabilities.

The Association for People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism (ADEE) in Spain condemned the practice after videos surfaced on social media showing entertainers with dwarfism arriving at the party venue.

“No one disrespected us, we were allowed to work in peace,” stated one of the entertainers who chose to remain anonymous to RAC1. “We work as entertainers. Why can’t we do what we do?”

Yamal, who just celebrated his birthday, has returned to training with Barcelona after a month-long break following the 2024-25 season — during which he helped the club secure a domestic treble with LaLiga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup.