Full Breakdown
Copyright Challenges for Russian Figure Skater Petr Gumennik at Milan Cortina Olympics
2/8/2026, 8:07:31 PM
Last-Minute Music Change for Competition
Russian figure skater Petr Gumennik has encountered significant challenges just two days before the men's short program at the Milan Cortina Olympics. The 23-year-old athlete, competing as a neutral participant, was compelled to change his short program music due to copyright issues. Initially, Gumennik had planned to perform to music from the film “Perfume: The Story of a Murderer,” but he discovered he lacked the necessary permissions. With limited time to secure clearance for his previous season's music from “Dune,” he opted for “Waltz 1805” by Edgar Hakobyan, for which he successfully obtained the rights.
Broader Context of Copyright Issues in Figure Skating
Gumennik's situation is not unique; other skaters have faced similar hurdles. Spanish skater Tomas-Llorenc Guarino Sabate also had to scramble for music approval, initially set to perform a medley from the animated film “Minions.” After learning that Universal Studios might reject his music, he worked on alternatives and ultimately secured permission for “Freedom” by Pharrell Williams. Belgian skater Loena Hendrickx switched her program from Celine Dion's “Ashes” to “I Surrender” after facing copyright concerns. The International Skating Union (ISU) has attempted to address these issues since relaxing its rules in 2014, allowing skaters to use modern music. However, objections from artists regarding unauthorized use have led to ongoing complications.
Official Statements on the Issue
ISU President Jae Youl Kim acknowledged the severity of the copyright problem, stating, “It is a very, very, very serious problem. We don't want athletes to be worried about the music.” The ISU has been working to develop systems to mitigate these issues, but they continue to arise frequently, affecting athletes' preparations.
Impact of Geopolitical Factors
Gumennik's participation as a neutral athlete is also influenced by geopolitical factors. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Russian skaters have been barred from international competitions, limiting their exposure and opportunities to showcase their performances. Gumennik was vetted for ties to the Kremlin and cleared to compete after winning the Skate to Milan event, which served as a qualifier for the Olympics. His free skate music, sourced from the Russian film “Onegin,” has received the necessary approval, unlike his short program music.
What's Next for Gumennik and Other Athletes
As the men's competition approaches, Gumennik and his fellow competitors will navigate the complexities of music rights while aiming to perform at their best. The ongoing copyright challenges in figure skating highlight the need for clearer guidelines and support for athletes in securing music permissions, ensuring that they can focus on their performances without the added stress of legal concerns.
