During the 2026 Olympic Games, Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladislav Heraskevych caught attention due to the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) ban on competing in a helmet bearing the portraits of Ukrainian athletes killed by Russian aggressors. As stated by the head of the All-Ukrainian Federation of Bobsleigh and Skeleton Mykhailo Heraskevych, his comrade went out for training with a "memory helmet" despite the ban.

Scandal on the Olympic stage

The IOC's ban became a bullet in an avalanche, causing widespread resonance. Heraskevych emphasized that his helmet represents the memory of athletes who lost their lives at the hands of Russian forces. This specifically refers to Dmytro Sharpаr and Yevhen Malyshев, who gave their lives for their country.

International community reaction

Support from other athletes from various countries indicates the world's concern. “We receive a lot of positive feedback. Athletes come up and express their support. They say that if their countries were experiencing something similar, they would also honor the memory of the fallen,” noted Mykhailo Heraskevych.

The situation with the IOC

Despite the expressed comments, Mykhailo Heraskevych emphasized that there is a noticeable decrease in contact with the IOC. “No meetings are scheduled for today,” he stated, expressing concern about the likelihood of disqualification for Vladislav Heraskevych: “I estimate that at 95%.” In his opinion, this could have serious consequences for all Ukrainian sports, as such a disgraceful decision would lead to further elevation of Russian athletes on the international stage.

Position of the President of Ukraine

Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, also reacted to the situation, thanking Heraskevych for drawing attention to the tragic consequences of Russia's aggression. The leader of the country emphasized that this truth must be heard on an international level: “This truth reminds the whole world of the price Ukraine pays for freedom.”

Next steps

Heraskevych's team intends to submit an official request to the IOC demanding permission for the athlete to compete in the symbolic helmet. Mykhailo Heraskevych stated that they will fight for Vladislav's right to represent Ukraine at the Olympics with dignity.

Sports have always been an arena of political conflicts, but in these challenging times, Ukrainian athletes demonstrate their resilience and readiness to fight for their country.