Islamabad, July 15, 2025: Barcelona star Lamine Yamal is under fire following his 18th birthday celebration, where individuals with dwarfism were reportedly hired for entertainment. The Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias (ADEE) strongly condemned the move, labeling it as a violation of dignity and human rights.
The July 13 party has sparked public outrage after ADEE, part of the Spanish Confederation of People with Disabilities (COCEMFE), revealed that those hired were used purely for promotional and entertainment purposes. ADEE President Carolina Puente criticized the act as “intolerable” and stressed it reinforces harmful stereotypes.
“It’s unacceptable that in the 21st century, people with dwarfism continue to be used as party entertainment,” said Puente. “The dignity and rights of our community are not a joke.”
The association also warned about the wider impact of such actions, especially when they involve high-profile public figures who influence youth culture.
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As of now, Lamine Yamal has not responded publicly to the allegations. The Spain international, who recently turned 18, enjoyed a stellar season with Barcelona, helping the club clinch LaLiga and the Copa del Rey titles. He’s also tipped to inherit Barcelona’s iconic No.10 shirt in the upcoming season.
