Olympic Skater Overcomes Minions Music Dispute to Keep 2026 Routine
Tomàs-Llorenç Guarino Sabaté, a prominent Spanish figure skater, has successfully resolved a music-related dispute that could have impacted his Olympic routine. This issue arose over the use of the Minions soundtrack at the upcoming Milano Cortina Winter Games in 2026.
Background on Music Dispute
The six-time Spanish national champion learned just before the Olympics that his performance music, which he had used throughout the 2025-26 season, was not cleared for Olympic competition. Guarino Sabaté had originally submitted his music selection through the International Skating Union’s (ISU) rights-clearance process months prior without any problems at events, including the European Championships in Sheffield.
Universal Studios Grants Permission
On a positive note, the 26-year-old athlete announced on social media that Universal Studios granted him the rights to use the Minions soundtrack. He expressed gratitude towards his supporters for their role in this outcome, stating, “Huge THANK YOU to everyone who reposted, shared and supported… I’m so happy to see that the Minions hitting Olympic ice is becoming real again!”
Challenges in Music Licensing
The situation highlights a larger issue within the world of figure skating. Music licensing has grown increasingly convoluted, particularly with modern music choices. ISU director-general Colin Smith pointed out that no unified clearance platform exists in the music industry, making it difficult for athletes to navigate rights issues.
Impacts on Other Athletes
- Canadian ice dancers Marie-Jade Lauriault and Romain Le Gac faced similar challenges with music selections.
- U.S. skaters Alexa Knierim and Brandon Frazier have also encountered licensing issues in the past.
Even high-profile athletes have found themselves embroiled in costly disputes, as demonstrated by Knierim and Frazier’s experience at the Beijing Olympics, where they faced a copyright lawsuit over a music selection. The legal complications surrounding music choice can overshadow performances, impacting the athletes’ experiences.
Collaborative Solutions for the Future
Smith has emphasized the need for a structured approach to resolve these complexities, suggesting collaboration between Olympic organizers and the music industry. He mentioned ongoing discussions with major rights holders aiming to develop a more practical licensing framework applicable across various sports.
Guarino Sabaté’s participation in the men’s singles event is set to commence on 10 February at the Milano Ice Skating Arena. The resolution of the music dispute ensures that he can perform his Minions-themed routine, a representation of his style and personality in the world of figure skating.
