What's Happening?
The Milan Cortina Olympics have seen figure skaters facing significant copyright challenges, affecting their music choices for performances. Skaters like Tomas-Llorenc Guarino Sabate and Petr Gumennik have had to navigate complex approval processes to use music from films. The issue arises from the need to obtain permissions for modern music, which is not in the public domain. The International Skating Union's decision to allow lyrics in performances has added complexity, requiring skaters to secure multiple licenses for different uses of the music.
Why It's Important?
These copyright challenges highlight the intricate legal landscape that athletes must navigate to use modern music in their performances. The situation underscores the broader issue of copyright management
in international events, where multiple stakeholders hold rights to music. For the sports industry, resolving these challenges is crucial to ensuring that athletes can perform without last-minute disruptions. The complexity of the approval process also points to the need for clearer guidelines and support systems to help athletes comply with copyright laws.
What's Next?
Efforts are underway to streamline the copyright approval process for figure skaters. The International Skating Union is working with companies like ClicknClear to create systems that facilitate obtaining permissions. National governing bodies are also collaborating with organizations like ASCAP and BMI to support athletes. These initiatives aim to reduce the burden on skaters and prevent future disruptions. The ongoing challenges may prompt further discussions on how to balance artistic expression with legal compliance in sports.
