© Brian Fluharty/Imagn
You have likely never heard the name of six-time Spanish national figure skating national champion Tomàs-Llorenç Guarino Sabaté, but just days before the Winter Olympics, Guarino Sabaté is one of the biggest stories.
The 26-year-old is set to represent Spain at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan/Cortina. Unfortunately, just days before he’s expected to compete, he learned that his short program, which featured music from the movie Minions, will not be allowed to go forward.
Copyright Law Ruins Highly Anticipated Olympic Figure Skating Short Program
“Hi everyone… this season I competed with my Minions short program to bring joy and a playful style to the ice while still meeting every required element to show that skating as a male Olympic figure skater can be fun,” the Olympian wrote on Instagram.
“Unfortunately, just days before the Olympic inauguration, I was informed that I am no longer permitted to use this program due to copyright clearance issues,” Sabate continued.
“Finding this out last Friday, so close to the biggest competition of my life, was incredibly disappointing.
“Nevertheless, I will face this challenge head-on and do everything I can to make the best of the situation.
“To my fans: I wish I had better news, but I’m grateful beyond words for your support this season. I promise to step on the ice with everything I have and deliver programs that both you and I can be proud of.”
#TomasLlorencGuarinoSabate is one of the skaters affected the additions copyright issues with the Olympic Games. His Short Program (The Minions) is no longer cleared. pic.twitter.com/mzO9TBwROn
— In The Loop (@InTheLoPodcast) February 2, 2026
Sabaté still intends to compete. However, he’ll have to replace his entire short program, which is a massive undertaking in such a short period of time. This comes after he used the music and routine throughout the entirety of the 2025-26 season.
While he wasn’t a threat to medal, Sabaté was a fan favorite in the figure skating world. And by taking away his routine, you’re also taking away from those same fans who were excited to watch him compete.