Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych has been withdrawn from the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics after refusing to remove images of war-deceased Ukrainian athletes from his helmet, violating IOC rules on political expression.
Helmet of Remembrance Controversy
Heraskevych’s helmet featured portraits of over 20 Ukrainian sports figures killed since Russia’s 2022 invasion, used during training at Cortina Sliding Centre. The International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) flagged it, prompting IOC intervention under Olympic Charter Article 50.2 banning propaganda.
Despite multiple meetings—including one with IOC President Kirsty Coventry—and offers of a black armband compromise, Heraskevych declined, leading to accreditation revocation.
Athlete’s Stand and Next Steps
The flag-bearer called the decision “heartbreaking,” vowing to honor fallen peers; he plans an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Ukraine’s NOC defended the helmet as compliant and non-political.
President Zelenskyy voiced support, highlighting the tribute’s significance amid ongoing conflict.
