Ukraine's flag bearer at Winter Olympics insists he will wear helmet with war victims
The Ukrainian flag bearer at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics stated on Tuesday that he will wear a helmet with photos of athletes who died in the conflict with Russia during his competition, despite a ban from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
TL;DR
- Vladyslav Heraskevych, Ukraine's flag bearer at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, plans to use a helmet featuring photos of athletes killed in the conflict with Russia.
- The International Olympic Committee (IOC) had previously banned the helmet, citing Article 50 of the Olympic Charter which prohibits political demonstrations.
- The IOC offered Heraskevych a black armband as an alternative for commemoration.
- Heraskevych contends that the rule should be applied uniformly, noting other athletes have displayed political symbols without sanctions.
- Violating Article 50 could result in penalties ranging from fines to disqualification, though diplomatic resolutions are usually sought first.