Vladyslav Heraskevych Defies IOC Ban with “Helmet of Remembrance” at Milano Cortina 2026

MILAN, 12 February 2026 — Ukrainian skeleton pioneer Vladyslav Heraskevych has emerged as one of the most talked-about figures of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games, following his decision to defy International Olympic Committee (IOC) regulations regarding his equipment. The athlete, who made history as Ukraine’s first-ever skeleton racer, is currently at the centre of a diplomatic and sporting standoff over a helmet designed to honour fallen Ukrainian athletes.

The “Helmet of Remembrance” Controversy

As of Wednesday, 11 February 2026, the IOC has reportedly “begged” Heraskevych to reconsider his stance on his competition gear. The athlete has been wearing a custom-designed helmet featuring images of Ukrainian sportspeople who have been killed during the ongoing Russian invasion. Under Rule 50 of the Olympic Charter, political, religious, or racial propaganda is prohibited at Olympic sites and venues.

Heraskevych, however, maintains that the helmet is a tribute rather than a political statement. Speaking during training sessions in Italy this week, he confirmed his intention to continue using the “helmet of remembrance” during his competitive heats, despite the threat of sanctions or disqualification from the event.

A Career of Firsts

Vladyslav Mykhailovych Heraskevych has been the face of Ukrainian sliding sports for over a decade. His journey from a newcomer in 2014 to a three-time Olympian has been marked by consistent improvement and a commitment to using his platform for advocacy.

Olympic Performance History

The Yanqing Protest

This is not the first time Heraskevych has used the Olympic stage for advocacy. Exactly four years ago, during the Beijing 2022 Games, he gained international attention after his third run at the Yanqing National Sliding Centre. He held up a printed sign to the cameras that read “No War in Ukraine,” just days before the full-scale invasion of his home country began. While the IOC initially investigated the incident, they ultimately decided not to punish him, citing it as a “call for peace.”

Impact of the War on Training

Since the escalation of the conflict in February 2022, Heraskevych’s life and career have been fundamentally altered. He has spent significant time working to provide hope for children in Ukraine and has been vocal about the difficulties of training while his home city of Kyiv remains under threat. His presence at the 2026 Games is seen by many as a symbol of Ukrainian resilience, though it has placed him in direct conflict with the IOC’s strict neutrality rules for the 2026 cycle.

Current Standing in Milan

On Day 4 of the 2026 Winter Olympics (10 February), Heraskevych participated in training and early heats. While international media, including Canadian and British outlets, have praised his resolve, the official Olympic ticker continues to monitor whether his “banned” helmet will lead to a formal protest by the governing body or other competing nations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Vladyslav Heraskevych?

He is a Ukrainian skeleton racer who began competing internationally in 2014. He is notable for being the first athlete to represent Ukraine in the sport of skeleton at the Olympic Games.

Why is his helmet banned at the 2026 Olympics?

The IOC considers the imagery on his helmet—which commemorates athletes killed in the war—to be a violation of Rule 50, which prohibits political demonstrations or displays on Olympic equipment.

What was his best Olympic finish?

To date, his best Olympic result was 12th place at the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Games.

Is Russia competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics?

Russian athletes are currently required to compete under a neutral status, a condition that Heraskevych has frequently criticised in public interviews leading up to the Milan games.