Figure Skater Faces Music Copyright Issue

Spanish figure skater Tomas-Llorenc Guarino Sabate has stated he will not be permitted to use music from the "Minions" film franchise at the Milano Cortina Games. He has used this music throughout the current season.

Background

Guarino Sabate, a six-time Spanish champion, is scheduled to make his Olympic debut. He reported following all required procedures, submitting the music via the ISU ClicknClear system in August. The "Minions" franchise is owned by Illumination, a subsidiary of Universal Pictures.

Guarino Sabate has also worn outfits resembling the animated characters, including a yellow t-shirt and blue overalls.

He stated his intention in choosing the music was to introduce joy and a playful style to the ice and demonstrate that "skating as a male Olympic figure skater can be fun."

Development

Guarino Sabate posted on social media that he was informed of the copyright clearance issues days before the Olympic inauguration, preventing him from using the program. He acknowledged the timing was disappointing but stated he would address the situation.

He expressed gratitude to his fans for their support and pledged to perform programs that he and his fans could be proud of.

International Skating Union Responds

The International Skating Union (ISU) acknowledged awareness of the situation. The ISU stated it would share more details as appropriate once available.

The organization commented that copyright clearances present a challenge for all artistic sports. While clarifying it does not have a contractual relationship with ClicknClear, the ISU affirmed its continued collaborative work with rights clearance stakeholders to facilitate performances with music.