Skeleton athlete Vladislav Geraskevich held a press conference in Cortina d'Ampezzo, where he expressed his intention to compete in the «Memory Helmet», symbolizing fallen Ukrainian athletes, despite the IOC's ban.
The International Olympic Committee has prohibited the use of the «Memory Helmet» and suggested a «compromise» of wearing a black armband. Geraskevich responded to this by stating that there are not enough black armbands to honor all the fallen athletes.
«I believe that the IOC does not have enough black armbands for the number of athletes who died because of this war. The helmet shows 24 individuals, but over 500 athletes have been killed. Thanks to their sacrifice, we can compete here - not just me, but the entire Ukrainian team. They deserve to be honored today and on the competition day», Geraskevich stated.
He confirmed his intention to compete in the «Memory Helmet» throughout the Olympics, both during training and on competition days.
«If the IOC betrays these athletes, I will not betray them. I plan to use the helmet in all training sessions. I used it on February 8, yesterday, and today. I will use it tomorrow and on the day of the races. 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», he emphasized.
Geraskevich noted that he does not aim to publicly fight the International Olympic Committee. He also provided examples of political statements that have already been made at the 2026 Olympics in Italy.
«We were told that all athletes should have equal rights. But at this Olympics, there have been enough political statements from American athletes, even in sports arenas; the Russian flag on the helmet of one athlete (Italian snowboarder Roland Fishnaller). They faced no sanctions or penalties. So if I have equal rights, it should be the same. If press conferences mention numerous conflicts worldwide, and we show this - the cost of freedom. That is the symbol, the mission of the Olympic movement. I do not want to fight the IOC. I truly love my sport and sincerely want people to engage in sports without war in their countries», the athlete emphasized.
Before the start of the men's skeleton competition, there is one official training session left 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.
