Vladyslav Heraskevych, a Ukrainian skeleton athlete, is challenging the IOC by displaying a political symbol—wearing a "banned" helmet to honor victims of the Russia-Ukraine war at the 2026 Olympics.
On 12 February 2026, Vladyslav Heraskevych, a Ukrainian national skeleton athlete, became a major focus at the 2026 Winter Olympics after declaring his determination to wear a special helmet to commemorate fellow athletes who died due to the Russian invasion, despite a strict ban from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
The controversial helmet features printed images of over 20 Ukrainian athletes and coaches who died in the Russia-Ukraine war. The IOC stated this act violated Rule 50, which prohibits political symbols at competitions, and proposed that Heraskevych wear only a black armband as a tribute instead.
However, Heraskevych rejected this offer and stated firmly, "This is not political propaganda, but a way to honor Olympic family members who lost their lives and never had the chance to stand here like us."
Support came from the Ukrainian government, with President Volodymyr Zelensky expressing backing for the young athlete's decision, noting the world should not turn away from the fact that over 650 Ukrainian athletes and coaches have died in the war.
This is not Heraskevych's first use of the Olympic stage to address the war; at the 2022 Beijing Games, he held a "No War in Ukraine" sign on live broadcast. He confirmed he will wear the helmet during competition despite the risk of disqualification or disciplinary action by the IOC.
Additionally, Heraskevych is the founder of a foundation supporting athletes and children affected by the war and was honored as Ukraine's flag bearer at the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony.
Competition Schedule Men's skeleton events in which Heraskevych will compete at the 2026 Winter Olympics (all times local, Italy).
Thursday, 12 February 2026
Run 1: 09:30
Run 2: 11:08
Friday, 13 February 2026
Run 3: 19:30
Run 4 (Final): 21:05
It remains highly anticipated whether he will wear the helmet as promised, since the IOC has threatened penalties up to disqualification from the competition.