Wladislaw Heraskewytsch, a skeleton pilot from Ukraine, faced disqualification from his event before it even commenced because of his helmet design, which the International Olympic Committee (IOC) deemed too political. His helmet featured portraits of 22 Ukrainian athletes who were killed in the war with Russia, and since the helmet would be prominently visible in competition images, the IOC prohibited its use. This decision highlights the ongoing struggle for visibility and recognition faced by Ukrainian athletes during the ongoing conflict.

The sport of skeleton involves competitors racing head-first down an icy track at speeds up to 145 kilometers per hour while lying on a small sled. The design of the sled and the set-up of the sport means that the helmet, positioned at the front, is more visible than the sled itself during races. This raises issues not just about sporting regulations, but also the political statements athletes wish to make. Heraskewytsch's disqualification sheds light on the tension between sport and geopolitics.

As athletic competitions continue amidst international conflicts, this incident is emblematic of the difficulties faced by athletes who wish to use their platforms to commemorate those affected by war. It raises questions about athlete activism, the role of international sporting bodies in political matters, and how personal expression can be managed within competitive frameworks. Heraskewytsch’s situation serves as a poignant reminder of the broader social context in which athletes operate, indicating that personal identities and national narratives continue to influence sports on the global stage.