Photo: instagram.com/heraskevychvladyslav
Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych was disqualified at the 2026 Winter Olympics, preventing him from starting his first run.
What happened
Heraskevych planned to compete wearing a so-called "memory helmet," featuring images of Ukrainian athletes who died as a result of Russian aggression. However, he did not take part in the first run.
The decision to disqualify him was made due to violations of International Olympic Committee (IOC) regulations. The IOC had previously prohibited the Ukrainian athlete from using the helmet during training and competition, citing rules on neutrality and the ban on political or memorial displays at the Olympic venue. Ignoring this restriction carried the risk of disqualification, which was ultimately enforced.
IOC statement
The IOC and the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) stated:
*"Ukrainian skeleton pilot Vladyslav Heraskevych will not be able to start his race at the 2026 Winter Olympics. This decision follows his refusal to comply with IOC rules regarding athlete self-expression. The IBSF jury determined that the helmet he intended to wear did not meet competition regulations.
The IOC deeply regrets having to revoke his accreditation for the 2026 Games. Despite numerous discussions and meetings with Mr. Heraskevych, including a personal meeting with IOC President Kirsty Coventry this morning, no compromise could be reached.
The IOC had wished for Mr. Heraskevych to participate in the competition and sought a respectful way to acknowledge his desire to honor his fellow Ukrainian athletes who were killed during Russia's invasion. This matter concerns not the message itself but the manner and location in which it was to be displayed."*
Symbol of remembrance
The "memory helmet" contained portraits of Ukrainian athletes who lost their lives during the ongoing war. Heraskevych intended it as a tribute to their memory and to draw global attention to Ukraine's losses.
No official comments have yet been made by Heraskevych or the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine regarding the incident.
