Barcelona star Lamine Yamal is under investigation after allegedly making fun of a short person during his 18th birthday celebration. The party took place in Olivella, around 50 kilometers from Barcelona, where Yamal is currently living in a rented house.
Yamal had invited many guests, including popular YouTubers and influencers, to celebrate the occasion. However, controversy sparked after a person with dwarfism was reportedly called just for entertainment purposes.
The Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias in Spain (ADEE) strongly condemned the act, calling it unacceptable in the 21st century. The organization stated that such actions promote stereotypes and discrimination against people with disabilities.
Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights has acknowledged ADEE’s complaint and confirmed that a legal case has been officially registered. The ministry emphasized that this incident could be seen as a violation of the rights of people with disabilities.
According to ADEE, inviting a short person solely for entertainment is a form of stereotyping and disrespect. They have demanded serious action against Yamal, saying it sets a harmful example for society.
Meanwhile, several guests who attended the party defended Yamal, saying the person involved was not disrespected. They claimed that the entertainment lasted for only an hour and the rest of the party continued normally.
Lamine Yamal, one of the rising stars in European football, is yet to make an official statement about the issue.
