Watch the 'Minion Skater' Light Up the Ice at the Olympics

Minions on Ice: A Moment of Joy Amid Copyright Chaos

The anticipation builds as fans get ready to watch Spanish figure skater Tomàs-Llorenç Guarino Sabaté perform his delightful "Minions" short program at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics. Known affectionately as the "Minion Skater," Sabaté is the first Olympian to don the cheerful yellow attire closely associated with the beloved animated characters. After much bureaucratic wrangling, he received last-minute approval from Universal Studios to perform his routine to a captivating medley of Minions music.

The Journey to the Olympics: Overcoming Barriers

Sabaté’s journey to the Olympic stage has not been smooth sailing. Initially, he faced a significant setback when he was informed just days before the Games that he would be unable to use the music due to copyright issues. He expressed his dismay on social media, sharing, “Finding this out last Friday, just before the most important competition of my life, was incredibly disappointing.”

Thanks to a groundswell of support from the public and the diligent efforts of rights clearance stakeholders, the situation shifted. Sabaté is not just skating; he’s sharing a message through his routine— that figure skating can be both competitive and fun.

How to Catch the Minion Madness Live

Viewers can tune in to watch Sabaté take to the ice on Tuesday, February 10, at 12:15 PM ET. The event will broadcast live on USA Network and Peacock, with NBC providing coverage shortly after at 12:45 PM. This moment is set to be a highlight of the Olympics, as anticipation for his joyful performance builds

Echoes of Copyright Issues in Figure Skating

Copyright concerns are not new in the world of figure skating. In an industry where music is essential for performance, athletes often find themselves navigating a complex landscape of copyright regulations. U.S. figure skater Alysa Liu recently faced a similar hiccup regarding her free skate choice, expressing disappointment over losing access to her favored Lady Gaga track.

The International Skating Union (ISU) acknowledged these challenges, stating, “Copyright clearances can represent a challenge for all artistic sports,” highlighting the ongoing struggle that many skaters face when preparing their routines.

Response and Fan Engagement

Sabaté’s story resonated deeply with fans across the globe. His Instagram post encapsulated the spirit of determination and joy that characterizes Olympic athletes: “I want to thank everyone for your support. I am profoundly grateful for your encouragement during this challenging time.” This transparency has made Sabaté a fan favorite not only for his skating prowess but for his relatability and authenticity.

The Bigger Picture: What This Means for Future Athletes

The situation of the "Minion Skater" sheds light on a broader issue in sports entertainment. As the landscape of music rights in athletics evolves, athletes may find themselves encouraged to craft performances that are not only technically skilled but uniquely entertaining. Sabaté’s approach of merging competitive skating with popular culture could serve as a template for future athletes seeking to establish their brands outside traditional norms.

Looking Ahead: What Comes Next?

The upcoming performance of Tomàs-Llorenç Guarino Sabaté at the Olympics is more than just another event; it's a reflection of creativity triumphing over red tape. Fans are eager to see how he embodies the Minions spirit on ice and delivers a performance that may not only entertain but inspire others.

As we prepare to watch this exciting moment unfold, it's clear that the impact of this story extends beyond mere competition. It represents the passion of athletes worldwide who, against all odds, bring a splash of joy to their respective sports. Don’t miss the excitement—tune in to witness the magic of the Minions take to the ice!