Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladislav Heraskevych made headlines during the second day of official training at the Olympics by wearing a helmet adorned with tributes to athletes who lost their lives due to the Russian invasion. This act occurred despite a ban imposed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on February 9.
Following his first training session in the helmet, which featured images of fallen Ukrainian athletes, Heraskevych engaged in discussions with IOC representatives. The committee prohibited him from wearing the helmet during the Games, suggesting instead that he could wear a black armband as a compromise.
“This helmet deserves to be here at the Olympic Games. The world needs to see our athletes. I don’t believe we are violating any IOC rules and feel we have the right to compete with this helmet,”
Heraskevych stated, expressing his determination despite the risk of disqualification from the IOC.
If he avoids disqualification, Heraskevych is scheduled to compete on February 12 at 10:30 AM.
His actions have garnered support from the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelensky, who have both publicly backed the athlete’s decision.
Skeleton is a winter Olympic sport that involves racing down a frozen track on specialized sleds without steering.
Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladislav Heraskevych wore a memorial helmet during Olympic training, defying an IOC ban. His actions have drawn support from national officials as he prepares for competition.
Source: Radio Svoboda