February 13, 2026
IOC disqualifies Ukraine’s skeleton captain for wearing helmet honoring athletes killed by Russia. Zelensky says it proves Olympics sides with aggressor.
The International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) disqualified Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych before his opening heat at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, citing his refusal to follow International Olympic Committee (IOC) guidelines on athlete self-expression.
TL;DR
- Vladyslav Heraskevych, captain of Ukraine's skeleton team, was disqualified from the 2026 Winter Olympics.
- The disqualification was due to his refusal to remove a helmet displaying portraits of Ukrainian athletes killed during Russia's invasion.
- The International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) cited a violation of International Olympic Committee (IOC) guidelines on athlete self-expression.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the IOC's decision, stating it implies the Olympics favor aggressors.
- The IOC stated the issue was not the message but where Heraskevych intended to express it, proposing alternative ways to honor the athletes.
- Heraskevych proposed conditions for resolution, including lifting the ban, an apology, and power generators for Ukrainian sports facilities.
- Ukrainian officials and sports bodies expressed strong support for Heraskevych, calling the IOC's decision a "moment of shame" and a violation of Olympic principles.
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