Pressure Mounts for Olympic Figure Skaters Ahead of Milan-Cortina 2026
This month, Olympic figure skaters will find themselves in the spotlight as they prepare for their performances at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics. The atmosphere is charged with expectations, but it’s not just about nailing the choreography. The key question is whether the music will actually play.
Spanish figure skater Tomas-Llorenz Guarino Sabate is hoping to secure permission to perform to a medley of four songs from the Minions movie series for his short program. U.S. champion Amber Glenn mentioned that as of Wednesday, she had finalized three of the tracks and was working on getting the go-ahead for the fourth one from Pharrell Williams.
Interestingly enough, Guarino Sabate hasn’t yet clinched an Olympic medal in his career. Despite that, he told his family and friends that Minions would be part of his Olympic routine, adding, “I didn’t want to be a liar.”
“We did our best to clarify everything, but honestly, the producers could easily say, ‘Never mind,’” she explained. “I’m just trying to stay on top of it and praying I don’t receive an email saying they prefer not to allow it.” It’s a complicated process, to say the least.
Glenn plans to perform to Madonna’s “Like a Prayer” for her short program. Even if Madonna herself objects, Glenn would consider it a win just to hear from the pop icon. “If I get a message from Madonna saying she doesn’t want me skating to her music, I’d be thrilled just to have received a message from her,” she noted, humorously wishing that wouldn’t happen.
Another standout athlete, Ilia Marin, focuses on infusing a personal touch into her routine. “Everyone’s really concerned about the music choice, and for me, I love to create something unique for my skating,” she shared. “I often reach out to artists directly, and it’s usually a positive experience. This year has been particularly supportive.”
Both Glenn and Marin are competing in singles and, as of now, neither of them holds an Olympic medal. The upcoming Winter Games are sure to be a significant event for these athletes looking to make their mark.
