IOC restores disqualified Ukrainian skeleton racer Heraskevych's accreditation for 2026 Winter Olympics

Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych has been allowed to remain at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, although he is banned from competing.

Source: the website of the International Olympic Committee (IOC)

Details: Following a "very respectful conversation" with Heraskevych, IOC President Kirsty Coventry asked the chair of the IOC Disciplinary Commission to review the decision to revoke the athlete's accreditation. The chair granted the request.

Heraskevych therefore retains the right to remain at the Games as an accredited person, although he is not permitted to compete.

Background:

• On 9 February, the IOC banned Heraskevych from competing in a helmet featuring portraits of Ukrainian athletes killed during the war. The IOC suggested that he wear a black armband as an alternative. The Ukrainian athlete responded that in spite of the ban, he planned to compete wearing the helmet.
• On the morning of 12 February, Heraskevych was disqualified from the competition. The IOC said the decision was due to his refusal to adhere to the IOC's guidelines on athlete expression.
• Commenting on Heraskevych's disqualification from the 2026 Games, IOC President Kirsty Coventry said she had nothing against the message the Ukrainian skeleton athlete wished to convey, but stressed that she must maintain a "safe environment" for all.
• Heraskevych had asked the IOC to allow him to compete wearing the "helmet of remembrance" before the start of the competition, but his request was not listened to.
• The Ukrainian athlete commented on his disqualification, saying: "Today we paid the price for our dignity."

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