In an unexpected turn of events just days before the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, Spanish figure skater Tomàs-Llorenç Guarino Sabaté's signature Minions-themed performance has been disqualified. Sabaté, who aimed to inject fun and a lighthearted spirit into men's Olympic figure skating, shared his dismay on Instagram, revealing that despite meticulously following all submission protocols and performing the routine throughout the season, he was informed of copyright clearance issues. The routine, celebrated for its whimsical nature and Sabaté's Minions-inspired costume, relies on the track "Papaya (Vaya Papayas)" by Juan Alcaraz, a song that prominently features elements and samples from the "Despicable Me" franchise. This sudden decision, coming so close to the pinnacle of his competitive career, has left the athlete "incredibly disappointed," as he prepares to adapt under pressure.
Sabaté's artistic choice to embrace the beloved yellow characters garnered significant online attention, showcasing a blend of theatricality and athleticism. The song at the heart of the controversy, "Papaya (Vaya Papayas)," is a rhythm-driven piece with minimal lyrics, sung in what are recognized as Minion voices, referencing fruits like pears, bananas, and papayas. While Juan Alcaraz shares various production credits on the song, it appears the necessary official permissions from Universal Pictures, the studio behind the "Despicable Me" series, were not secured for the use of its intellectual property. The franchise, centering on supervillain Gru and his Minion army, has expanded into multiple films, making copyright protection a significant concern for the studio. This incident highlights the complex intersection of sports, entertainment, and intellectual property law, especially in high-profile international events like the Olympics.
The figure skater has, however, chosen to approach this significant hurdle with resilience and gratitude. Expressing profound thanks for the outpouring of support from his fans throughout the season, Sabaté has committed to facing the challenge head-on. He promised to dedicate himself fully to delivering performances that will make both himself and his supporters proud. The Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games are scheduled to run from February 6-22 across Italy's Lombardy region, with the initial figure skating competitions set for the opening day. Despite the setback, Sabaté's commitment to his sport and his audience remains unwavering, embodying the Olympic spirit of perseverance and determination.
This situation serves as a powerful reminder of the intricate balance between artistic expression and legal rights in the global arena. It underscores the importance of thorough due diligence in securing intellectual property clearances, especially when creative works draw inspiration from popular culture. Sabaté's journey, marked by this unexpected challenge, stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit to overcome adversity, demonstrating that true victory often lies not just in winning, but in the courage to continue, adapt, and inspire others through dedication and passion, even when faced with unforeseen obstacles. His story reinforces the idea that challenges, while difficult, can also be catalysts for growth and renewed commitment to one's craft.