Overview

• A formal probe opened on July 14 will determine if hiring performers with dwarfism at Lamine Yamal’s party violated Spain’s 2022 dignity law.
• Current legislation bans using people with disabilities for public ridicule but carries no penalties, leading ministers to propose fines ranging from €600,000 to €1 million.
• The Association of Spanish Persons with Achondroplasia (ADEE) has condemned the event as discriminatory and vowed to pursue legal and social action to defend the rights of individuals with dwarfism.
• Two anonymous artists who performed at the party have issued statements asserting their participation was voluntary, professional, and conducted with full respect for their dignity.
• The controversy threatens Yamal’s reputation as he remains a leading Ballon d’Or contender and faces scrutiny from fans and football officials.