POLITICS

Statement on the Disqualification of Ukrainian Athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych

We regret the recent decision by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to disqualify Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych, who was barred from competing at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games for wearing a helmet featuring images of Ukrainian athletes and coaches killed in the ongoing Russian war against Ukraine.

This helmet was intended as a tribute to fallen Ukrainian sportsmen and sportswomen, and as a symbol of remembrance and dignity for those who made the ultimate sacrifice. We believe that honoring such victims cannot be rightfully classified as a prohibited “political statement.”

SD Platform regrets the IOC’s decision, which not only prevented an athlete from realizing his Olympic dreams but also sent a concerning signal that acts of commemoration and solidarity are incompatible with the values of international sport.

12.02.2026

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