Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal is under fire after allegedly hiring individuals with dwarfism as entertainers for his 18th birthday celebration — a move that has sparked outrage and potential legal consequences in Spain.
The young winger celebrated his milestone birthday on July 13 with a lavish party, but controversy erupted when it was reported that people with dwarfism were hired to entertain guests during the event.
According to Spanish outlet AS, the Association of People with Achondroplasia and other Skeletal Dysplasias has publicly condemned the act and announced plans to take both legal and public action against Yamal.
“The Association condemns the involvement of people with dwarfism for entertainment purposes at Yamal’s celebration and will take legal and public action,” the organization said in an official statement.
Backlash Over Use of Dwarf Entertainers
The use of people with dwarfism as a form of entertainment has long been criticized as dehumanizing and exploitative. Advocates argue that such practices perpetuate harmful stereotypes and reduce individuals to objects of amusement rather than treating them with dignity and respect.
Yamal has not publicly responded to the accusations as of the time of reporting.
Rising Star Facing Public Scrutiny
The controversy comes just as Yamal’s football career is soaring. The Spain international was a key figure in Barcelona’s 2024/25 double-winning campaign, helping Hansi Flick’s side to LaLiga and Copa del Rey titles.
With high expectations ahead of the new season, Yamal is also tipped to inherit Lionel Messi’s iconic No.10 shirt, solidifying his place as a central figure in Barcelona’s future.
However, this latest scandal could tarnish his public image and bring unwanted legal challenges as the new season approaches.
The Association’s legal move may set a precedent in Spain regarding the public use of dwarf entertainers, further pushing the conversation around entertainment ethics and social responsibility — especially for high-profile public figures.
