Could Spain be fined for playing ‘underage’ Lamine Yamal?

According to German news outlet Bild, the Spanish national team federation could face a fine during the 2024 European Championships for fielding Lamine Yamal, who is only 16 years old. Under German law, minors under 18 are not permitted to work after 11 p.m. As a result, La Roja could be fined up to 30,000 euros (c.$32,000).

When did Yamal play after 11 p.m.?

As the report explains, although the later matches in the tournament conclude before 11 p.m. – ending at approximately 10:45 p.m. plus some added time for injury/delay – the work regulation would also consider post-match activities such as showering, media obligations, and other duties performed by the players.

The 16-year-old Spanish forward’s participation conflicts with a German youth protection law that applies to all minors under 18. According to the outlet, the regulation specifies that young individuals are not allowed to work past 8 p.m., with an exception for young athletes, who are permitted to work until 11 p.m.

The Barcelona star has already played in the matches against Croatia and Italy, although only the latter was a late kick off potentially violating this law. Authorities have yet to take action against such instances within the sports domain.

This issue uniquely affects the Spanish team as it is the only team with an underage player involved. The likes of Zaïre-Emery (France), Sauer (Slovakia), and Sigua (Georgia) are the next youngest but have all reached the age of maturity.