Spanish Skater Wins Rights to Perform Minions Routine at Olympics

Sometimes the internet really does make magic happen, and a Spanish figure skater just proved it.

Tomas-Llorenc Guarino Sabate will get to perform his famous Minions routine at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan after fans around the world rallied behind him. The 26-year-old thought he'd have to abandon his signature program due to copyright issues, despite submitting the proper paperwork months ago.

Sabate's routine has become legendary on the figure skating circuit. He glides across the ice in a yellow T-shirt and blue overalls, performing to a mix of songs from the Minions films while capturing the characters' playful spirit.

When word spread that licensing problems would force him to change his program, the skating world erupted. Fans flooded social media with the hashtag #lettheminionskate, turning a copyright dispute into a global movement.

The breakthrough came Thursday night after final negotiations with representatives of Pharrell Williams, whose song "Happy" from Despicable Me 2 is part of Sabate's music selection. Universal Pictures had already agreed to the arrangement.

"We have made it: we have obtained the licences for all four musical pieces," Sabate announced Friday morning on Instagram. The six-time Spanish champion said the support from fans worldwide kept him motivated through the stressful process.

Why This Inspires

Sabate's story shows what happens when authenticity meets determination. The skater from Spain's small figure skating federation has never been a podium contender at major championships. His best finish at the World Championships is 20th place.

But he found something more valuable than medals. By staying true to his unique artistic vision and performing with pure joy, he built a connection with audiences that transcended scores and rankings. At the 2026 European Championships in Sheffield, he finished 18th but left as a fan favorite.

The resolution proves that sometimes the underdogs win, especially when people unite behind them. What started as one skater's copyright headache became a reminder that sports needs characters like Sabate, athletes who prioritize entertainment and heart over playing it safe.

"I am deeply moved by the love shown to a small skater from a small federation," Sabate wrote. He'll compete in the men's singles event on February 13 at Milano Ice Skating Arena, ready to deliver a performance worthy of all the support he received.

The Minion will skate in Milan after all, and the world will be watching.