Ukraine Accuses IOC of ‘Betrayal’ Over Banned Tribute Helmet
By: Stories buzz
Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych arrived at the 2026 Winter Olympics with a special helmet showing images of Ukrainian athletes killed in the war with Russia.
The custom helmet featured portraits of fallen Ukrainian athletes — friends and colleagues of Heraskevych — as a tribute to their memory.
What Was on the Helmet
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) told him he cannot wear the helmet during competition, saying it could violate Rule 50 of the Olympic Charter banning political demonstrations at Games venues.
The Ukrainian Olympic Committee has appealed, arguing the helmet isn’t political and meets safety rules.
President Volodymyr Zelensky praised Heraskevych, saying the tribute shows the true cost of Ukraine’s struggle and should not be labeled political.