Vladislav Geraskevich, a skeleton athlete, has been disqualified from participating in the 2026 Winter Olympics following a decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The ruling stems from Geraskevich’s intention to wear a helmet adorned with portraits of deceased Ukrainian athletes during the competition.
The CAS hearing lasted approximately two and a half hours, with nearly six hours of deliberation, ultimately siding with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF). The court acknowledged the importance of freedom of expression at the Olympics but concluded that the event is not merely a platform for political statements.
Geraskevich’s attorney, Yevgen Pronin, provided insights into the proceedings during an interview. He described the process as standard for sports arbitration but noted the use of an ad hoc arbitration procedure, which is designed for urgent cases during the Olympics. This allows for rapid resolutions, typically within 24 hours.
“When I first learned about Vlad’s situation, we decided to pursue this procedure. Our complaint was accepted quickly, and a hearing was scheduled promptly,” Pronin stated.
After an eight-hour wait for a verdict, Geraskevich and his team received a brief statement indicating that their appeal had been rejected. A subsequent media release offered limited clarity on the decision, prompting calls for a more detailed explanation.
“The judge raised numerous questions regarding the rationale behind the disqualification, especially since similar cases involving athletes from other countries had not resulted in sanctions,” Pronin noted.
Geraskevich’s disqualification was based on the IOC’s assertion that he had publicly announced his intention to use the helmet, while other athletes had not made similar declarations. The IOC argued that this preemptive disclosure warranted a different response.
“This case is unprecedented. It was essentially a disqualification based on intent rather than action. Vladislav did not even reach the track,” Pronin explained.
Pronin criticized the IOC’s approach, suggesting that the governing body had escalated the situation rather than seeking a dialogue. He described the IOC’s legal representation as overly procedural and lacking in understanding of the broader implications of their actions.
“The IOC’s attorney argued that the Olympics had become a platform for Ukraine, suggesting that the media attention surrounding Vlad’s helmet was his fault. Vlad countered that the IOC’s actions had created this narrative,” Pronin added.
Despite the ruling, Geraskevich intends to pursue further legal action, potentially in Swiss courts. Pronin indicated that they would need to assemble a team of local lawyers to navigate this next phase.
“Vladislav is committed to continuing his fight. We have 30 days to decide on the next steps,” Pronin concluded.
Vladislav Geraskevich has been disqualified from the 2026 Winter Olympics after the CAS upheld the IOC's decision regarding his helmet. His legal team plans to challenge the ruling in Swiss courts.
Source: Reuters