Skeleton athlete Vladislav Geraskevich held a press conference in Cortina d'Ampezzo, announcing his intention to compete in the «Helmet of Remembrance», featuring images of fallen Ukrainian athletes, until the end of the 2026 Olympic Games, despite the IOC's prohibition.
The IOC has prohibited the use of the «Helmet of Remembrance» and suggested a black armband as a «nice compromise». According to Suspline Sport, at the press conference, Geraskevich reacted to this «compromise» from the NOC, emphasizing that there aren’t enough black armbands to honor all the fallen athletes.
«I believe the IOC does not have enough black armbands for the number of athletes who have died due to this war. There are 24 individuals depicted on the helmet. But over 500 athletes have been killed. Thanks to their sacrifice, we can compete here today - not just me, but the entire Ukrainian team. If it weren't for their sacrifice, the war could have reached Europe. They deserve to be here with me today and deserve to be with me on the day of the competition,» said the Ukrainian athlete.
Vladislav also confirmed his intention to compete in the «Helmet of Remembrance» until the end of the Olympic Games - during training runs and on official competition days.
«If the IOC betrays these athletes, I will not betray them, - stated Geraskevich. - The plan is to use the helmet in all training sessions. I used it on February 8, yesterday, and today. I will use it tomorrow and on race day. I do not agree with the IOC's decision. I believe we have not violated any rules. All these athletes depicted on the helmet were killed, but their voices are so loud that they can be heard.»
Vladislav emphasized that he does not aim to publicly confront the International Olympic Committee. He also cited examples of political statements that have already been made at the 2026 Olympic Games in Italy.
«We were told that all athletes should have equal rights. But at this Olympics, there were plenty of political statements from American athletes, even at sporting venues; a Russian flag on the helmet of one of the athletes. They received no sanctions or punishment. So if I have equal rights, it should be the same. If many conflicts around the world are mentioned at press conferences, we should show the price of freedom. This is the symbol, the mission of the Olympic movement. I do not want to fight the IOC. I truly love my sport and want people to engage in sports and not have wars in their countries,» the athlete emphasized.
One official training session remains before the start of the men's skeleton competitions at the 2026 Olympics on Wednesday, February 11. The next day, February 12, the first two runs for men will take place, with two more scheduled for Friday, February 13.