The Minions are Olympic bound after all.
Spanish figure skater Tomas-Llorenc Guarino Sabate received approval Friday to use a medley of music from the animated film while performing his short program routine at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics.
“I am very happy to announce that we have made it: we have obtained the licenses for all four musical pieces, and I will be able to skate my Minions program at the Olympic Games,” Sabate posted on Instagram. “It has not been an easy process, but the support from everyone who has followed my case has been essential in keeping me motivated and optimistic throughout these days.”
Sabate had used the music all season in men’s singles, while skating in overalls and a yellow shirt to replicate the look of the characters, but he was informed four days before the Opening Ceremony that he would not be able to do so at the Olympics.
“I was informed that I am no longer permitted to use this program due to copyright clearance issues,” Sabate said at the time. “I will face this challenge head-on and do everything I can to make the best of the situation.”
Last week, Universal Studios asked for him to provide more details on the music Sabate was using and the Minions-inspired outfit that he had been wearing.
He was able to quickly get approval for two cuts of music, and Sabate obtained a third by reaching out directly to the artist, a fellow Spaniard. The holdup was the song “Freedom” by American musician and producer Pharrell Williams.
That approval finally came Friday, about two hours before the Olympic figure skating program opened with the team event.
“I want to thank ClickClear and the RFEDH, as well as Universal Pictures, Pharrell Williams, Sony Music and Juan Alcaraz for managing the rights in such a short time so I can perform my program in Milan,” Sabate said in his post. “Without everyone’s help, this would not have been possible. I would also like to thank the media for sharing my story and helping it reach so many people.”
Sabate is scheduled to take the ice in his overalls and yellow shirt on Tuesday during the men’s short program event on Peacock.
“Right now, my only goal is to give my very best on the ice and deliver a program worthy of the affection I have received from people all around the world,” he wrote. I am deeply moved by the love shown to a small skater from a small federation.
“A heartfelt hug to you all. Poopaye!”
The Associated Press contributed to this report
U.S. figure skater Amber Glenn has been keeping tabs on the music clearance issues surrounding Spanish figure skater Tomàs-Llorenç Guarino Sabaté and his Minions-themed performance.
