Spanish figure skater Tomas-Llorenc Guarino Sabate has encountered a major setback just days before the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. Due to copyright issues, he is unable to perform his popular routine set to music from the animated film Minions. This decision has forced the six-time national champion to make last-minute adjustments to his program.
Sabate, 26, had planned to showcase his Minions routine during the men’s competition, which begins on February 10, 2026. Throughout the season, he has captivated audiences dressed in a yellow shirt and blue overalls, reminiscent of the beloved characters from the film. His routine, designed to bring joy and a unique flair to the ice, was submitted for approval through the International Skating Union’s (ISU) ClicknClear system in August, and he had been performing it successfully in competitions leading up to the Olympics.
However, on February 3, 2026, he received notification that Universal Pictures had not granted permission for him to use their music in his Olympic performance. In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, Sabate expressed his disappointment, stating, “Finding this out just days before the most important competition of my life was incredibly disappointing.” He emphasized his commitment to delivering an engaging performance and thanked his fans for their unwavering support throughout the season.
In light of this unexpected change, Sabate now faces the challenge of selecting new music for his short program. He has previously skated to music by the Bee Gees and may revert to that for his upcoming performance. With limited time to adapt, he is determined to remain focused and make the best of the situation, stating, “I promise to go onto the ice and give everything that I have got.”
The ISU acknowledged the complexities surrounding copyright clearances in artistic sports. In a statement, they noted, “Copyright clearances can represent a challenge for all artistic sports. While the ISU does not have a contractual relationship with ClicknClear, we continue to work collaboratively with rights clearance stakeholders to ensure that thrilling performances can be accompanied by stirring music.”
As Sabate prepares for his Olympic debut, the eyes of the skating world will be on him. His resilience and determination to overcome this hurdle exemplify the spirit of the Games. As the competition draws near, fans and supporters alike are eager to see how he will adapt and what new routine he will present on the Olympic stage.
