Ukrainian skeletonist Heraskevičs has filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after being disqualified by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) shortly before the Winter Games. He argues that the punishment is disproportionate and insists that he has not violated any technical or safety regulations. He believes that the disqualification has caused him irreparable harm as an athlete, further complicating his chance to compete in upcoming events.

In his appeal, Heraskevičs demands that he be reinstated as a participant in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, or that he be allowed to take part in an official qualifying run overseen by CAS, the results of which would be considered in light of the final decision on his case. The CAS has indicated that it will hear his petition with a panel of arbitrators specifically designated for Olympic-related matters.

The IOC's decision to disqualify Heraskevičs is rooted in his refusal to change a helmet depicting over 20 Ukrainian athletes and coaches who lost their lives in the ongoing war initiated by Russia. The IOC stated that Heraskevičs' noncompliance with its athlete conduct guidelines warranted the disqualification, thus barring him from the upcoming Winter Olympics. This incident highlights the intersection of sports and politics, raising questions about athlete expression amidst geopolitical tensions.