By News Editor 
FC Barcelona’s 18-year-old sensation, Lamine Yamal, continues to make headlines both on the pitch and off, particularly after pop star Nicki Nicole was spotted wearing his jersey at a recent match. Yamal is also simultaneously the subject of controversy after hiring ‘midgets’ to entertain his guests for his 18th birthday party.
Investigation Underway After Controversial Birthday Party for FC Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal
Lamine Yamal has ignited a heated debate over the treatment of individuals with dwarfism after hiring performers for his lavish 18th birthday celebration, where the participation of those with dwarfism was reportedly treated as some kind of humiliation. In fact, the dwarfs were being to perform and entertain, but in a dignified way, as a form of spectacle for the attendees. The Spanish government is now assessing whether any laws concerning individuals with disabilities were breached during the event.
Guests at the celebration in Olivella reportedly signed confidentiality agreements, and video footage surfaced online showcasing various acts involving individuals with dwarfism. The Spanish Ministry of Social Rights has called for an investigation regarding reports that the rights and dignity of these performers may have been compromised. “The conditions of their participation must be examined closely, focusing on whether their human rights were respected,” a government spokesperson stated. The public response has been sharply divided, with several artistic individuals with dwarfism defending their right to work in entertainment without facing ridicule.
One performer at the party remarked, “Nobody disrespected us. We were treated like anyone else,” underscoring the need for nuanced conversations around this sensitive topic. However, the advocacy group ADEE (Asociación de Personas con Acondroplasia y sus Familias) has taken a strong stance, condemning Yamal’s actions as degrading. “Events like these push us into the role of spectacle and mockery,” stated Carolina Puente, president of the organization.
Están saliendo un montón de mierdas del cumpleaños de Lamine Yamal ('chicas de compañía', personas con enanismo como "entretenimiento"), que me dan ganas de vomitar por un lado, por otro pienso en Ricky Rubio alertando sobre los peligros de encumbrar/despeñar a chavales que no son ni mayores de edad
— Belén Remacha (@belenremacha.bsky.social) July 14, 2025 at 2:17 AM
Following the outrage, the government is considering imposing fines on performances involving individuals with dwarfism, but Spanish news reports are fairly contradictory as others appear to suggest no wrongdoing in a legal sense. There is a burgeoning sensitivity around the ethical implications of such entertainment. This incident is the latest chapter in an ongoing discourse about representation and respect for individuals with dwarfism and brings to the fore underlying societal attitudes towards physical differences. As this story continues to unfold, the broader implications for the representation of individuals with disabilities in entertainment remain critically pertinent.
Nicki Nicole Romance
In more positive news, pop star Nicki Nicole was seen rocking Yamal’s 10 jersey. This casual appearance has reignited speculation about a potential romance between the Argentine singer and the young footballer. Social media buzz has not spared the couple from discussions about their age difference, with Nicole being 24 and Yamal just entering adulthood. In addition to the personal drama, Yamal’s performance has been a hot topic in the media, with River Plate’s Academy Director, Gabriel Orlando Rodríguez, commenting on the player’s growing prowess. He argued that while other players may show flashes of brilliance, Yamal’s style is already drawing parallels to some of football’s most celebrated stars, suggesting that he is “dignifying the number 10” shirt.
Yamal, who wrapped up pre-season as Barcelona’s top scorer, with two goals in a 5-0 victory against Como, is proving to be a source of inspiration for the youth. Interestingly, a post by a blue sky user expressed surprise at young boys donning Yamal’s jersey, saying, “The number on a player’s back has the potential to make or break a career.” Such sentiments reflect the increasing weight that the young Yamal carries—not just in sports, but as a cultural icon in Spain.