Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych has been disqualified from the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina, Italy. The disqualification stems from his refusal to remove a helmet, or more specifically, a hat worn during competition, which prominently features images of Ukrainian athletes and coaches who have died since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine four years ago.
Officials from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) deemed Heraskevych’s display a violation of the Olympic Charter. Rule 50.2 of the charter explicitly states that no political, religious, or racial propaganda or demonstration is permitted in any location during the Olympic Games. Despite requests from IOC officials to wear different racing gear, Heraskevych steadfastly refused, asserting that the headwear served as a poignant memorial to his fallen compatriots. The hat reportedly displayed the likenesses of more than 20 Ukrainian athletes and coaches tragically lost in the ongoing conflict.
The decision to ban Heraskevych, who was considered a contender in the medal race, was communicated approximately 45 minutes before he was scheduled to compete on February 12. Prior to the disqualification, the IOC had attempted to reach a compromise, suggesting that Heraskevych wear alternative racing equipment and a black armband, with the option to display his helmet bearing the pictures after the conclusion of the race. However, he remained firm in his decision.
Expressing his profound dissatisfaction with the disciplinary action, Heraskevych stated, “I strongly believe that the IBSF and IOC understand that I have not violated any rule. I am in pain that this ban is discriminatory, especially when many athletes have already expressed themselves in various ways. It feels unjust that merely a picture honoring Ukrainian athletes has led to my disqualification from the Olympics.”
