Ukrainian Skeleton Slider Vladylsav Heraskevych Withdrawn from Winter Olympics Over Helmet Dispute

Ukrainian skeleton slider Vladylsav Heraskevych has been withdrawn from competing at the Winter Olympics after he refused to adhere to the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) athlete expression guidelines. Heraskevych insisted on wearing a helmet adorned with images of athletes who lost their lives during the ongoing war in Ukraine, a stance that has sparked significant controversy. According to a statement from the IOC, after having been given one final opportunity to adjust his approach, Heraskevych will not be participating in his scheduled race at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. This difficult decision was made by the jury of the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF), which determined that the helmet design was not compliant with the established rules. The IOC expressed regret over the situation, noting that it had to withdraw Heraskevych's accreditation for the Milano Cortina 2026 Games due to his non-compliance. Despite multiple exchanges and in-person discussions, including a final meeting with IOC President Kirsty Coventry, the athlete did not consider any form of compromise regarding his helmet design. In response to this development, Heraskevych indicated to CNN Sports that he plans to appeal the IOC's decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), seeking a resolution that would allow him to express his support and remembrance through the artwork on his helmet. This story is developing, and further updates are expected as the situation unfolds. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2