The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has rescinded its decision to withdraw the accreditation of Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych. Although he may now remain at the 2026 Winter Olympics, the athlete remains disqualified and cannot participate in the competition.
The official IOC website reported this update following a personal meeting between Kirsty Coventry, Chair of the IOC Athletes’ Commission, and the athlete. While the discussion was respectful, the organization maintained its stance regarding technical regulations and prohibited equipment.
“On an exceptional basis, after the very respectful conversation with the athlete, Coventry asked the IOC Disciplinary Commission (DC) Chair to re-consider the withdrawal of Vladyslav Heraskevych’s accreditation for the Milano Cortina 2026 Games. The Chair of the IOC DC agreed to the request, which means Mr Heraskevych can continue to be at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games despite not being able to compete,” the official statement read.
Context of the disqualification
The dispute began when Heraskevych used a “memorial helmet” during official training sessions. The gear featured photographs of Ukrainian athletes killed during Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The IOC classified this as a political message, which is strictly prohibited on the field of play and the podium.
The Ukrainian National Olympic Committee attempted to appeal the ban. However, the IOC only offered neutral alternatives, such as wearing a black ribbon. Heraskevych refused to alter his helmet, leading to his formal disqualification on February 12. Notably, the athlete had shown medal-winning potential, recording the fastest time during the third training session.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded to the disqualification by awarding Heraskevych the Order of Liberty. This honor recognizes the athlete’s firm stance and his dedication to honoring fallen compatriots. Heraskevych will now stay in Italy as part of the Ukrainian delegation until the Games conclude.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that Heraskevych was banned from the Olympics due to the symbolism on his helmet.
