Olympian Champions Minion-Inspired Skating Rights
In a notable development in the world of figure skating, Spanish skater Tomàs-Llorenç Guarino Sabaté has received the go-ahead to perform his Minion-themed routine at the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics. This decision follows an earlier rejection of his routine due to copyright issues, marking an unprecedented turnaround in music rights for figure skaters.
Background on the Minion Routine
Guarino Sabaté, a six-time Spanish national champion, has utilized a playful Minions-inspired musical score throughout the international skating season. His costume features distinctive blue overalls and a yellow T-shirt, reminiscent of the Minion characters. He aims to showcase that figure skating can be both fun and competitive, incorporating elements like upbeat EDM in his performances.
Support from the Community
The skater expressed gratitude towards his supporters, stating that their reposting and sharing played a crucial role in persuading Universal to reverse their earlier decision on the song’s usage. However, he is still awaiting clearance for two other musical elements of his routine.
The Music Rights Controversy
The landscape of music rights in figure skating shifted dramatically following a high-profile lawsuit in 2022. American pairs team Alexa Knierim and Brandon Frazier faced legal issues over their performance to a cover of “House of the Rising Sun.” The lawsuit resulted in a settlement of $1.4 million for the composing duo, Heavy Young Heathens, sparking concerns about music rights among skaters and coaches.
New Music Clearance Process
In response to these changes, the International Skating Union has partnered with ClicknClear. This company was created to streamline the music clearance process for skaters. Nonetheless, many in the skating community are skeptical about the efficacy and reliability of ClicknClear in handling complex copyright laws.
- Guarino Sabaté submitted his routine to ClicknClear in August 2025.
- He received a clearance denial just days before an important competition.
Challenges Ahead
Skaters often face tough decisions when seeking permission for music. While directly contacting artists or their representatives is a surefire way to gain clearance, it carries risks, particularly for those who prefer remixes or mashups. There’s uncertainty surrounding whether artists would approve of using their work in such a manner.
Influence of Public Opinion
Guarino Sabaté’s case stands out as the first instance in which public outcry has influenced a music rights decision in the sport. Analysts believe that Universal noticed the viral potential of his routine and decided to capitalize on it. This reflects a broader change in the figure skating community, highlighting the increasing intersection of sports, entertainment, and copyright law.
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, all eyes will be on Guarino Sabaté and his Minions program, which promises to be a vibrant blend of creativity and athleticism on the ice.
