Controversy Surrounds Birthday Celebration of Footballer Lamine Yamal

Newly surfaced pictures depict attendees arriving at a private party held for the teenage football star, with accusations of exploitative practices emerging. The event, which celebrated Yamal’s 18th birthday, has drawn widespread condemnation after claims that individuals with dwarfism and women were paid to attend under questionable pretenses.

Photographs show five men with achondroplasia being registered at the entrance, followed by images of women passing through security and guests arriving later in the evening. Notably, Barcelona players Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, and Alejandro Balde appeared to be part of the gathering, which was themed around a mafia-style party.

Alongside the images, allegations from model Claudio Calvo claim organizers sought to hire women with specific physical features, offering up to 20,000 euros while requesting their commitment for 24 hours without disclosing full details. Calvo stated she withdrew from the event after realizing the nature of the demands, which she described as seeking models or escorts with particular characteristics.

Criticism intensified after images emerged of individuals with dwarfism entering the venue, which was held on a secluded estate. The event is under scrutiny for allegedly exploiting disabled people for entertainment, with the Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias (ADEE) condemning the booking of individuals with dwarfism for this purpose. ADEE announced intentions to pursue legal and social actions to protect the dignity of people with disabilities.

Yamal shared a brief video clip on social media showing moments from his celebration, dressed in a white suit and wearing a valuable chain gifted by a rapper. Despite attempts to keep the event private, criticism focused on the ethical implications of using vulnerable groups for amusement, with some experts emphasizing the importance of respecting human rights and promoting societal dignity.

As allegations continue to unfold, Yamal has yet to comment publicly on the accusations or the controversy surrounding his birthday festivities.