Vladislav Heraskevičs, a Ukrainian skeleton athlete, has expressed his determination to compete wearing a helmet that displays the names of Ukrainian sportspeople who have been killed during the ongoing conflict with Russia. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has stated that he cannot compete with this helmet at the Olympic Games, yet they have suggested that he wear a black armband instead. However, Heraskevičs has firmly rejected this alternative, asserting his intention to wear the helmet during competitions regardless of the IOC's stance.

During a recent training session, Heraskevičs confirmed that he wore the same helmet, insisting that he and his supporters are fighting for the right to compete while honoring those who have died. He believes that they are not violating any laws or rules by representing their fallen comrades in this manner. The situation brings attention to the ongoing conflict and the impact it has had on athletes, as Heraskevičs seeks to highlight both his athletic journey and the sacrifices made by his fellow Ukrainian sports figures.

This incident brings to the forefront the complexities of nationalism and representation in sports, especially in times of conflict. While the IOC has previously dealt with similar situations, such as when Italian snowboarder Roland Fischnaller wore a helmet featuring the Russian flag during the Sochi Olympics, it remains to be seen how the organization will respond to Heraskevičs's decision. Public support for the Ukrainian athlete has been significant, reflecting broader sentiments regarding the war and its influence on sports and athletic representations.