Winter Olympics skater speaks out on ‘Minionsgate’ controversy after being cleared to perform

A Spanish figure skater has been given the all-clear to perform his Minions routine on ice after days of uproar.

The internet went crazy earlier this week when it was revealed that Spanish figure skater Tomàs-Llorenç Guarino Sabaté would have to change his iconic Minions routine due to copyright issues.

Fear not, though, as those who were hoping to see the Universal movie in action on ice are once again in for a treat.

Guarino Sabaté, who is the proud holder of six national titles, was all set to make his debut at the 2026 Winter Olympics. It wouldn't be any old debut, however, as the star promised to bring some fun to the ice.

We've all heard of Disney on Ice, but this figure skater was all set to bring the Minions on ice as he prepared to skate to music from the hit film, whilst wearing the iconic yellow and blue outfit.

However, his (and our) dreams were crushed earlier this week when he revealed he was no longer allowed to perform the routine due to copyright issues.

Guarino Sabaté holds six national titles (Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)

Speaking out on the controversy, the Spanish figure skater said in a statement on his Instagram, writing: "Hello all, this season I have competed with my Minions routine to bring joy and a fun style to the ice, while complying with all of the obligatory elements and demonstrating that ice skating as a male Olympic figure skater can also be fun.

"Regrettably, just days before the Olympics begin, I was informed that I am no longer allowed to perform this routine due to copyright issues.”

The statement caused an uproar online, with fans protesting that he should be allowed to perform the routine.

Now, though, the star has issued a positive update, and fans are overjoyed. Gru won't be hounding down the figure skater after all, as the 26-year-old revealed on Friday morning that he has been given the green light to perform at the upcoming Winter Olympics.

Universal has helped make the skater's dreams come true (Yuan Tian/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Sharing the positive update with fans on Instagram, Sabaté said: "I am very happy to announce that we have made it: we have obtained the licences for all four musical pieces, and I will be able to skate my Minions program at the Olympic Games."

Thanking fans, he continued: "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."

The star then went on to express his gratitude towards Universal Pictures, Sony Music, and 'Happy' singer Pharrell Williams for 'managing the music rights in such a short period of time so that I can perform my program in Milan'.

Concluding, he penned: "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. I am deeply moved by the love shown to a small skater from a small federation."

Fans are over the moon at the result, with many taking to X and Instagram to share their joy.

"Protect him at all costs," exclaimed one fan, while another said: "This is excellent news!"

Sabaté will be performing in the men's singles event next Friday, 13 February, at Milano Ice Skating Arena, and we'll definitely be tuning in!

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