Vladyslav Heraskevytsj, a Ukrainian skeleton athlete, faced disqualification from the Olympics shortly before his event after a personal meeting with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry. Coventry had waited for Heraskevytsj's arrival at the bobsleigh and skeleton venue in Cortina, intending to discuss his participation just 75 minutes before the men's skeleton competition was scheduled to begin. Despite the meeting, Coventry seemingly could not persuade the athlete to change his mind about competing.

Following their discussion, both Coventry and Heraskevytsj spoke to the press. An emotional Heraskevytsj expressed feelings of emptiness and described the IOC's decision as 'terrible.' He voiced his discontent with how he was treated compared to other athletes in similar situations, asserting that the decision was entirely unjust. This incident highlights the broader issues surrounding athlete treatment and fairness in the context of international sporting events.

The disqualification of Heraskevytsj not only affects his Olympic hopes but also raises questions regarding the governing body's decisions and the support provided to athletes during such pivotal moments. The emotional weight of the situation, as evidenced by Coventry's tears during the press conference, further emphasizes the complexities and pressures faced by both athletes and officials in the Olympic environment.