Barcelona footballer Lamine Yamal is under intense fire after his 18th birthday party was accused of exploiting women and people with dwarfism.
The party, themed around mafia-style glamour, reportedly featured hired women selected for their breast size and men with dwarfism for entertainment.
Spanish authorities are now demanding a full investigation. The Ministry of Social Rights and Consumer Affairs says it may impose a fine of up to £867,000.
“We are concerned that people with money, people with power, believe themselves to be unpunished,” said Jesús Martín, the government’s General Director of Disability.
“The law is for everyone — for the humble and for the powerful.”
Model Alleges Breasts Were Criteria for Invitation
According to social media influencer Claudia Calvo, Yamal’s team paid women with specific physical features to attend the party.
“Twelve women with a certain breast size were paid to show up,” she alleged.
Calvo’s claims have since gone viral in Spain, sparking backlash against the teenage football star, who many young people idolise.
Officials say such behaviour could send a dangerous message to Yamal’s millions of fans.
Outrage from Disability Rights Group
The Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism (ADEE) has threatened legal action against Yamal.
“The ADEE 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 group said.
“The Association announces that it will take legal and social action to safeguard the dignity of people with disabilities.”
They said the event disrespected “fundamental ethical values of a society that seeks to be egalitarian and respectful.”
Yamal, who turned 18 on July 13, reportedly hosted around 200 guests, including family, friends, and Barcelona teammates.
But his celebration now threatens to damage his rising public image and attract a criminal probe.
If found guilty of violating any law, Yamal could face sanctions under Spain’s anti-discrimination and disability rights codes.
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