Ukrainian Athlete Barred From Winter Olympics Over Helmet Honoring War Dead

Vladyslav Heraskevych, a medal hopeful in the skeleton, was barred from competing shortly before the race began on Feb. 12.

Ukrainian athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych at a men's skeleton training session at the 2026 Winter Olympics, in Cortina d'Ampezzo, on Feb. 10, 2026. Alessandra Tarantino/AP Photo

A Ukrainian Olympian was barred from racing in the men’s skeleton event on Feb. 12 after refusing Olympic officials’ demand to stop wearing a helmet honoring the Ukrainian athletes and coaches who have died during his nation’s war with Russia.

Vladyslav Heraskevych had been tipped as a medal contender at the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics, but his Olympic dreams were cut short around 45 minutes before the competition started.