Milan, Italy – Vladyslav Heraskevych, the Ukrainian skeleton racer disqualified from the 2026 Winter Olympics for wearing a helmet adorned with images of Ukrainian athletes killed in the war with Russia, will receive $200,000 from Rinat Akhmetov, the owner of Ukrainian football club Shakhtar Donetsk. The financial support, equivalent to the premium typically awarded to Ukrainian Olympic champions, recognizes Heraskevych’s symbolic stand and the injustice he faced, despite being barred from competition.
The controversy erupted when the International Olympic Committee (IOC) deemed Heraskevych’s helmet a violation of its political messaging guidelines, specifically Article 50 of the Olympic Charter, which prohibits any form of political statement during the Games. Heraskevych appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), but the appeal was ultimately rejected, preventing him from participating in the event. The situation sparked outrage and accusations of double standards, particularly given reports of Russian flags appearing at the Games despite being officially prohibited.
Akhmetov, in a statement released on Wednesday, February 17, 2026, expressed his support for Heraskevych, stating, “Vlad Heraskevych was deprived of the opportunity to fight for victory at the Olympics, but he returns to Ukraine as a true winner.” He further emphasized that the greatest reward for Heraskevych is the respect and pride he has earned among Ukrainians, and that the financial assistance is intended to support his continued athletic career and his fight for justice, freedom, and the memory of those who have given their lives for Ukraine.
The decision to disqualify Heraskevych stemmed from his desire to honor fallen Ukrainian athletes. The helmet featured portraits of those who died during the ongoing conflict with Russia. The IOC argued that the helmet constituted a political message, while Heraskevych maintained it was a tribute to those who had made the ultimate sacrifice. He stated he was prepared to compete only in the helmet bearing the images, a stance that ultimately led to his exclusion from the competition.
CAS Rejection and Zelenskyy’s Recognition
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) confirmed the IOC’s decision, stating that the sole arbitrator had no choice but to agree with the IOC’s policy regarding athlete conduct at the Olympics. According to 24.hu, Heraskevych expressed his disappointment with the ruling, stating, “This train has left. CAS let me down.” He also voiced concerns that his disqualification was rooted in Russian propaganda.
Prior to the disqualification, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recognized Heraskevych’s courage and awarded him the Order of Merit, one of the highest civilian honors in Ukraine, for his dedication and patriotism. This recognition underscores the national significance of Heraskevych’s gesture and the widespread support he has received within Ukraine.
IOC Response and Previous Precedent
The IOC initially responded to the controversy by stating that Heraskevych’s helmet violated its guidelines on political symbols, but allowed him to wear a black armband as an alternative form of remembrance. Euronews reported that IOC spokesperson Mark Adams acknowledged the strength of Heraskevych’s message but maintained the need to uphold the rules regarding political expression at the Games.
Heraskevych argued that the IOC had previously allowed similar tributes in the past, suggesting a double standard in its treatment of Ukraine. He had prepared a formal request to the IOC to allow him to compete with the helmet, but his appeal was ultimately unsuccessful. Blikk reported that IOC President Kirsty Coventry attempted to persuade Heraskevych to use a different helmet, but he refused to compromise his principles.
What’s Next for Heraskevych?
Despite the setback, Heraskevych’s story has resonated deeply with many, highlighting the complex intersection of sports, politics, and national identity. The financial support from Rinat Akhmetov will undoubtedly provide him with the resources to continue his athletic career and advocate for the values he believes in. The incident also raises important questions about the IOC’s policies regarding political expression and the balance between upholding neutrality and allowing athletes to honor those who have suffered in times of conflict. The focus now shifts to Heraskevych’s future competitions and his continued advocacy for justice and remembrance.
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