Sport Court Rejects Ukrainian Slider Herasevych’s ‘Helmet of Remembrance’ Appeal

Ukrainian athlete Victor Heraskevych faced a disappointing setback as the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) rejected his appeal regarding his disqualification from the 2023 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. Heraskevych, who serves as Ukraine’s flag bearer, had sought permission to wear a ‘Helmet of Remembrance’ during his competition. This helmet was intended to honor those who lost their lives due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Background of the Appeal

Heraskevych argued that his disqualification was “disproportionate.” He noted that other athletes had been allowed to express their grief at the Games. For instance, American figure skater Maxim Naumov recently held up a poignant photograph of his parents during a competition. They died in a plane crash in Washington, D.C. last year.

IOC Guidelines on Athlete Expression

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) maintained that Heraskevych contravened the guidelines related to athlete expression established in 2023. These guidelines emphasize that the focus during the Olympic Games must remain on athletic performance. The IOC’s laws assert a clear division between sports and any political or religious expressions.

Concerns About Political Expression

• The IOC spokesperson, Mark Adams, expressed that allowing athletes to wear commemorative gear could lead to exploitation of the Olympic platform.
• Heraskevych criticized the Milan-Cortina Games for acting as a means of “Russian propaganda.”
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also voiced concerns that the IOC’s actions benefit the “Russian aggressor.”

Support from Fellow Athletes

Despite facing challenges, Heraskevych has garnered support from his fellow Ukrainian competitors. Alpine skier Dmytro Shepiuk showcased a note that read “Ukrainian heroes with us” after his event. Additionally, the Ukrainian mixed relay luge team demonstrated solidarity by kneeling and raising their helmets in unison.

As the Olympic Games progress, the situation highlights the ongoing tensions between sports and the political landscape affecting athletes worldwide, particularly in Ukraine’s current climate.