Euro 2024: “Germany’s Labor Law Prevents Lamine Yamal from Playing Full 90 Minutes”

By Legal Wires 4 Minutes Read

Lamine Yamal, the most viral footballer right now after helping Spain reach the Euro 2024 final with a stunning goal, but La Roja might not be able to use him for the full 90 minutes in the final against England.

In the semi-final against France, after the former champions took an early lead, Yamal produced what could be the goal of the tournament, making a mockery of the French defenders and curling the ball past Mike Maignan from outside the box.

Lamine Yamal at the age of 16, became the youngest player to score in the European Championship. He also holds the record for being the youngest participant in a men’s Euro. Last season, at 15, the Barcelona winger became the youngest player to debut and score in La Liga and the youngest to start in the Champions League.

Spain wants such a talent to play for 90 minutes, especially in the upcoming final. However, Germany’s labour laws are proving to be a significant obstacle. Since the Euro 2024 is hosted in Germany, with the final to be held in Berlin, these regulations are affecting Spain’s game plan.

German labour laws prohibit minors under 18 years of age from working past 8 PM (Central European Time). While athletes are allowed to work until 11 PM, this time frame includes all duties, such as getting freshened up and speaking to the media, not just playing time.

Many of Spain’s matches, including the semi-final against France, started at 9 PM local time. Playing a full 90 minutes would extend beyond 11 PM, considering injury time, the 15-minute half-time break, and post-match interviews. Spain had to substitute Yamal in the 86th minute, 71st minute, and 19th minute in their group-stage matches against Croatia, Italy, and Albania, respectively.

However, Yamal played over 90 minutes, including extra time, in the semi-final against France and also played the full match in the Round of 16 clash against Georgia.

For violating the labour law, the Spanish Football Association (RFFA) could reportedly face a €30,000 fine.

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