FC Barcelona star Lamine Yamal is facing backlash after hiring people with dwarfism as part of the entertainment for his 18th birthday party.
The event, held just outside Barcelona, had more than 250 guests, and has prompted condemnation from ADEE (Association for People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias).
ADEE released a statement denouncing the incident and confirmed it will pursue legal action. The group says the practice violates Spain’s General Law on the Rights of People with Disabilities, which bans using people with disabilities “to provoke ridicule or mockery.”
“This is unacceptable in the 21st century,” said ADEE president Carolina Puente. “The dignity and rights of our community are not entertainment for anyone, under any circumstances.”
Puente added that when influential public figures are involved, “the damage is even greater, because it conveys to society – especially to young people – that discrimination is acceptable.”
According to the association, those hired were involved solely for promotional and entertainment purposes, which it argues reinforces harmful stereotypes and undermines the rights of people with achondroplasia and other skeletal dysplasias.
ADEE is demanding accountability and has called on the public to support its campaign for dignified representation. The group is also encouraging those affected to reach out for support, offering help with job training, education, and professional development.
The controversy has sparked wide media coverage in Spain and beyond. Social media reaction has been swift, with many users calling for a public response from Yamal, who signed a long-term deal with FC Barcelona and is expected to take the club’s iconic number 10 shirt, previously worn by Lionel Messi.
Yamal and his representatives have not yet commented on the matter.