Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych expressed his heartbreak after being informed by an IOC representative that he could not wear a helmet meant to honor his fellow athletes who lost their lives due to Russian attacks during the ongoing conflict. The helmet features images of approximately half a dozen sportsmen, and Heraskevych wore it during an official training session at the Winter Olympic Games in Cortina d'Ampezzo. However, the potential for its use during competitive events remains uncertain as the IOC has not yet provided a final ruling on the matter.

The helmet was designed as a tribute to commemorate the fallen athletes, and Heraskevych's emotional response highlights the intersection of sports, trauma, and remembrance in the context of war. The ban has elicited concerns regarding the interpretation of IOC regulations, as the athlete hopes for a reconsideration of the decision which he believes may not fully reflect the committee's stance. An official request for reconsideration is expected to be submitted to the IOC.

Heraskevych shared his sentiments via an Instagram video, expressing hope that the decision may be reviewed. The situation denotes broader issues surrounding the representation of national identity and the impact of ongoing geopolitical conflicts within international sporting events. The IOC's stance on such matters raises questions about their engagement with global crises and the role of sports as a platform for social commentary and recognition of human loss.