Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych has been expelled from the Winter Olympics in Cortina after refusing to replace a helmet depicting victims of the Russian invasion. The decision came less than an hour before he was due to compete as a medal contender, sparking one of the most controversial episodes in Games history.
International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Kirsty Coventry made a final attempt on Thursday morning to persuade the 27-year-old to end the stand-off, but with neither party willing to compromise, his accreditation was stripped. Coventry choked up as she told reporters it had been an 'emotional morning', adding: 'No one, especially me, is disagreeing with the messaging... The challenge was to find a solution for the field of play. Sadly, we've not been able to find that solution.'
Heraskevych, who has family fighting on the frontline, posted on social media: 'This is the price of our dignity.' He later said: 'I am disqualified from the race. I will not get my Olympic moment... I told Coventry that this decision plays along with Russia's narrative.' His father and coach, Mykhailo, was seen crying on a mound of snow after learning the news.
The IOC stated that the decision was taken by the jury of the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) based on the helmet not complying with rules on athlete expression. The Ukrainian Olympic team is expected to take the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
