Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signed a decree awarding skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych the Order of Freedom. The honor was bestowed on the member of Ukraine’s national Olympic team for “selfless service to the Ukrainian people, civic courage and patriotism in defending the ideals of freedom and democratic values.” The Order of Freedom is one of Ukraine’s highest state awards, recognizing citizens for outstanding service to the country.
Earlier, the International Olympic Committee barred Heraskevych from competing in a helmet featuring portraits of Ukrainian athletes killed during Russia’s invasion. The athlete wore the helmet during pre-Olympic training and posted on Instagram to explain his decision. Heraskevych wrote that he wanted to honor their memory and support their families, and to show the world the true cost of Ukraine’s freedom.
He said the Committee’s decision “breaks the heart,” as it prevents honoring on the sports stage those athletes who will never return. Heraskevych believes “special rules” were applied to Ukraine and said he intended to file an official complaint.
Zelensky backed the skeleton athlete at the time, writing on Telegram that truth cannot be deemed inconvenient or a “political act” at sporting events. Later, IOC spokesperson Mark Adams said the helmet violated the rules, but as an exception the Committee allowed Heraskevych to wear a black mourning armband, calling it a good compromise.
