The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has received a formal request from Ukraine regarding the use of a helmet by skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych, which features portraits of athletes who lost their lives due to the ongoing conflict with Russia. This announcement was made by IOC spokesperson Mark Adams during a press conference on February 10.
Adams stated that the committee understands the desire of Ukrainian athletes to honor their deceased friends and colleagues. He noted that a meeting was held the previous evening with Heraskevych’s coach and delegation, where the IOC reiterated its understanding of the athlete’s wish to pay tribute.
However, Adams emphasized that according to the Olympic Charter, the focus must remain on athletic performance and that all athletes should have equal rights. He remarked, “It is critical that the Games are free from any political, religious, or other interference, allowing all competitors to concentrate on their performances.” He did not specify how the helmet would violate these rules.
Despite the restrictions, the IOC has permitted the wearing of a black armband to commemorate the deceased. Adams explained, “We are trying to approach his wishes with compassion and understanding. He has expressed his feelings both online and during training sessions. We will not prevent him from speaking at press conferences or elsewhere after the competitions. We believe this is a good compromise in this situation.”
The Ukrainian National Olympic Committee confirmed that it received an official response from the IOC regarding Heraskevych’s request for the ‘memorial helmet.’ The IOC acknowledged the athlete’s intention to honor fallen Ukrainian sportsmen but prohibited the use of personalized equipment during competitions, citing the need for neutrality and the avoidance of political messages.
As an alternative, the IOC suggested the use of a non-personalized black armband and has established a “special mourning area” within the Olympic villages to support athletes. The Ukrainian committee announced plans for a press conference later on February 10 to address the matter.
Earlier, Heraskevych had reported that the IOC had denied his request to wear the helmet adorned with images of deceased Ukrainian athletes. He also pointed out that an Italian snowboarder had previously competed with a helmet featuring the Russian flag among other designs.
The IOC has denied a request from Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych to wear a helmet honoring fallen athletes, citing Olympic Charter rules. Instead, the IOC has allowed a black armband as a compromise and established a mourning area in the Olympic villages.
Source: Radio Svoboda