Ukrainian skeleton racer says disqualification is "the price for our dignity"

Denis Ivanenko, Stanislav Lysak - 12 February, 11:14

Vladyslav Heraskevych. Photo: Getty Images

Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych has commented on him being disqualified from the 2026 Winter Olympic Games for refusing to compete without his "remembrance helmet" featuring images of Ukrainian athletes killed due to Russia's aggression against Ukraine.

Source: Suspilne Sport, a Ukrainian sports television channel, citing Heraskevych

Quote: "I had arrived at the track prepared for the skeleton race but then there was a meeting with Ms Coventry where, I believe, they did not explain why I could not compete wearing my helmet.

I still believe we have broken no rules and we had every right to race wearing the helmet, like other athletes who did similar things in recent days at these Olympic Games.

After the conversation, the international federation, the IBSF [The International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation], handed me a document claiming that I had violated the Olympic Charter and would therefore be removed from the competition."

Details: Heraskevych said he had received no response from the IOC chief regarding past incidents of a similar nature. He also requested an explanation for the Russian flags displayed in the stands.

This story is developing, we'll bring you the latest updates as they happen.

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