2026 Winter Olympics: Skater cannot perform to Minions’ music in Milan

“Finding out last Friday, so close to the biggest competition of my life, was incredibly disappointing.

“However, I will face this challenge head-on and do my best to achieve the best results.

“To my fans: I wish I had better news, but I am so grateful for your support this season. I promise to stand on the ice with everything I have and deliver programs that you and I can be proud of.”

Sabate’s short program routine – the first of two in singles figure skating – has proven a hit in competitions around the world, including in Sheffield at the 2026 European Figure Skating Championships, where he finished 18th but has become a fan favourite.

Sabate, a six-time Spanish champion who is set to make his Olympic debut in Milan, said he followed all required procedures and submitted the music through the International Music Federation’s ClicknClear system in August.

He has only a few days left to make changes to his program before the start of the men’s event in Milan on February 10.

Sabate may use a mix of Bee Gees music for his short program, as this was the routine he will perform in 2024-2025. However, this is complicated, because he also performs pop group songs in his free skate – the second part of his routine.

The International Ski Federation said it was aware of the situation.

“Once we have more details about this specific case, we will share them as appropriate,” they said in a statement. “Copyright licensing can be a challenge for all technical sports.

“Although ISU does not have a contractual relationship with ClicknClear, we continue to work collaboratively with rights clearance stakeholders to ensure that exciting performances can be accompanied by exciting music.”

The International Olympic Committee has been contacted for comment.