Ukrainian Vladyslav Heraskevych appeals to CAS over Olympic disqualification
Vladyslav Heraskevych in the memory helmet (photo: Getty Images)
On Friday, February 13, the hearing on the disqualification of Ukrainian skeletonist Vladyslav Heraskevych at the 2026 Winter Olympics began. The athlete arrived at the Milan venue of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), where the session is being held behind closed doors.
RBC-Ukraine reports on what is known about the case review.
''Had to be at the start, not in court''
After arriving at the hearing, Heraskevych emotionally commented on the situation.
He said he should be part of the competition today, not part of the hearing.
On social media, he also addressed his supporters, saying the fight for the truth continues. He is confident he did not violate IOC rules and considers his disqualification completely unfair. He sees all the support from fans, which inspires him greatly.
Reason for the controversy
The International Olympic Committee suspended the Ukrainian athlete because of the "Memory Helmet," which featured images of Ukrainian athletes who died as a result of Russian aggression.
The IOC considered the helmet’s design a violation of the Olympic Charter and banned its use during competitions and training. The athlete refused the alternative options offered, after which he was removed from participation.
How long will the hearing last
CAS Director General Matthew Reeb told Suspilne Sport that the process could take several hours.
He said the duration of the hearing is still unknown, but they hope to reach a final decision on February 13. The goal is to determine whether the ruling of the relevant federation was legal.
The case is being heard by a single judge from Germany. IOC representatives and Heraskevych are in Milan, while the athletes’ lawyers and delegates from the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) are participating remotely.
Victory does not guarantee competition
The Ukrainian athlete has already missed the first runs. So even if CAS rules in his favor, his participation in the remaining Olympic events remains uncertain due to the tight competition schedule.
However, Heraskevych emphasizes that his main goal is to defend his principled position and prove that he did not violate the rules.
Earlier, it was reported that Zelenskyy awarded Heraskevych following the controversial disqualification at the 2026 Olympics.
Also, we shared a full schedule of Ukrainian athletes’ performances and medal finals on February 13 at the Winter Games.
