Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych plans to wear his helmet of remembrance during races, despite the IOC banning it. The helmet honors athletes killed in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, some of whom were his friends.
The IOC says it breaks Olympic Charter rules and suggested a black armband instead. Heraskevych believes he has the right to wear it and doubts he will face sanctions. The IOC hasn’t confirmed if he would be disqualified, saying hypotheticals aren’t helpful.
He can show the helmet in mixed zones and on social media, but not on the track during races. Heraskevych said the helmet keeps the memory of athletes alive, including teenage weightlifter Alina Peregudova, boxer Pavlo Ishchenko, and ice hockey player Oleksiy Loginov.
The IOC has disqualified athletes before for political messages, such as Afghan breakdancer Manizha Talash at the 2024 Paris Games.
