Olympic Committee bars Ukrainian skeleton racer's helmet showing compatriots killed in Russia's war

February 10, 2026

TL;DR

The IOC will not permit Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych to use a helmet depicting fellow Ukrainian athletes killed in the war.
Heraskevych expressed heartbreak over the decision, feeling the IOC is betraying athletes and ignoring past precedents.
The IOC cited the need to keep the Olympic Games free from political interference and focused on sport and unity.
The committee suggested a plain black armband or ribbon as an alternative to personalize the tribute.
Heraskevych stated he would compete in honor of the fallen athletes, including teammates like Dmytro Sharper and boxer Maksym Halinichev.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized the IOC's decision, calling the helmet a reminder of Russia's actions and the global role of sport.

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