Vladyslav Heraskevych of Ukraine removed from Winter Olympics for wearing helmet honoring war victims

Ukrainian skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych was barred from the Milan Cortina Games for refusing to remove a helmet honoring fallen Ukrainian athletes. Despite IOC President Kirsty Coventry’s personal appeal, Heraskevych stood firm, citing perceived discrimination and the helmet’s powerful message. His disqualification has sparked outrage, with many calling him a champion regardless.