Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladislav Heraskevych has been disqualified from the 2026 Olympics in Milan Cortina after he insisted on wearing a helmet that pays tribute to his fallen teammates, who lost their lives during the ongoing conflict with Russia. The Ukrainian Olympic Committee confirmed the disqualification, which follows the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) decision to prohibit such protests during the Games. The IOC had suggested that Heraskevych could wear a black armband instead to honor his teammates, but this was not acceptable to him.

Heraskevych, who is set to be the flag bearer for Ukraine at the Olympics, has publicly stated his intention to compete while wearing the helmet, despite the IOC's ruling. His actions underscore the ongoing tensions surrounding the conflict between Ukraine and Russia and highlight the personal impact of the war on athletes who continue to deal with its repercussions even in the realm of international sports.

This incident further illustrates the broader issues of political expression in sports and raises questions about the boundaries of acceptable forms of protest within the framework of the Olympic Games. The ramifications of this disqualification could spark debates on how sporting events are utilized to raise awareness about social and political issues, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts around the world.