What should’ve been a private, glitzy birthday party for Lamine Yamal — one of Spain’s brightest football talents — has quickly spiraled into a nationwide scandal.
The Barcelona player’s recent 18th birthday celebration is now under intense scrutiny, not just from the media but from the Spanish government itself.
Photos from the party have surfaced, showing individuals with dwarfism and scantily clad women entering the venue — triggering accusations of exploitation and prompting calls for legal action.
Behind the Scenes of the Controversial Party
Yamal’s birthday bash, which took place at a private estate, had a mafia-inspired theme.
He arrived dressed like a movie don — white suit, red rose, sunglasses, and a cane.
Guests reportedly weren’t allowed to bring phones, but images still managed to leak.
Among the partygoers were big names like Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski, along with Yamal’s teammates Gavi and Alejandro Balde.
Despite the A-list crowd and lavish setup, it was the nature of some paid attendees that raised eyebrows.
Claims of Objectification and Paid Attendees
According to Spanish model Claudia Calvo, women were specifically selected for the event based on their body type.
She told Tardear TV that organisers sought out “blonde women with a specific breast size” and offered up to €20,000 for 24 hours of availability — without even revealing what exactly they were expected to do.
Calvo said she backed out after seeing the requests.
Meanwhile, photos emerged of five men with dwarfism checking in at the party entrance, sparking a wave of backlash, especially from disability rights groups.
The Government Steps In
Following an outcry, the Spanish government has joined critics in demanding an official investigation.
The General Director of Disability, Jesús Martín, condemned the party and emphasized that laws apply to both the powerful and the everyday citizen.
He warned that influential figures like Yamal must set a better example for the public, especially younger fans who might see such behavior as acceptable.
The ADEE Responds With Legal Threats
The Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism (ADEE) didn’t mince words.
They publicly denounced the event and said it blatantly violated the rights and dignity of people with disabilities.
Their statement made it clear: “We will take legal and social action to safeguard dignity.”
The organisation is calling on anyone from the dwarfism community who may have been affected to come forward for support.
A Potential Price to Pay
Reports suggest that Yamal could face a fine of up to £867,000 if found to have breached anti-discrimination or exploitation laws.
As public pressure grows, the government is pushing for a full investigation into the planning and execution of the event.
Despite the mounting criticism, Yamal has remained largely silent.
He did post a one-minute highlight reel from the party on social media, encouraging fans to “enjoy it.”
No mention of the controversy was included.
The Bigger Issue of Representation and Respect
Carolina Puente, the ADEE’s president, summed up the bigger concern: “It’s unacceptable that in the 21st century, people with dwarfism continue to be used as party props.
And it’s worse when it involves public figures.”
She emphasized that such actions send a dangerous message to society — especially to impressionable young fans — and called for widespread education about respect, equity, and inclusion.
What Comes Next?
As of now, Yamal hasn’t responded directly to the allegations made by Calvo or the ADEE.
But the issue is far from over. Calls for accountability are growing louder, and with the government and advocacy groups involved, legal consequences may soon follow.
The party may be over, but the fallout is only just beginning.