Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal has defended his lifestyle amid backlash over his 18th birthday party, which led to legal action after entertainers with dwarfism were allegedly hired. The teenager emphasized that he draws a line between his personal and professional life, focusing on his football career while remaining unfazed by public criticism.
Barcelona’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal, has addressed the growing controversy surrounding his 18th birthday party, during which entertainers with dwarfism were allegedly hired. Amid legal action and public backlash, Yamal has firmly stood by his right to enjoy his life, emphasizing his focus on football and his commitment to Barcelona.
Yamal’s 18th birthday celebration in Olivella, a town near Barcelona, became a subject of scrutiny after a video surfaced showing performers with dwarfism arriving at the event. The incident led to a formal complaint by the Association for People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias (ADEE), sparking a government investigation in Spain. The backlash led to a social media uproar, triggering legal action from the Spanish Ministry of Social Rights.
In his first public response since the controversy erupted, Yamal addressed the situation during a press conference, stating, “Ultimately, I work for Barca, I play for Barca, but when I’m away from the Ciudad Deportiva, I enjoy my life, and that’s it.” The young star drew a sharp line between his personal and professional life, making it clear that he won’t be swayed by outside opinions when it comes to how he chooses to live.
While Yamal has not directly commented on the specifics of the legal complaint, his words highlight his growing maturity in the face of public attention. As one of the brightest young talents in world football, Yamal is no stranger to the media spotlight. Despite the controversy, he has remained focused on his football career and has expressed indifference toward both praise and criticism, especially from those outside his inner circle.
Yamal’s primary focus remains on his football career, as he prepares for the upcoming 2025-26 season with Barcelona under the guidance of coach Hansi Flick. The teenager seems undeterred by the storm surrounding him and is keen on maintaining his commitment to the sport. His comments suggest he is determined to stay grounded, focusing on his performance on the pitch rather than the external noise.
