A Ukrainian skeleton racer was banned from the 2026 Winter Olympics after wearing a helmet featuring images of athletes who lost their lives during the war in Ukraine. The athlete said the design was meant as a tribute to fallen sportsmen and women, but officials ruled that it violated Olympic guidelines on athlete expression. After refusing to remove the helmet, he was disqualified and later lost an appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The International Olympic Committee stated that while it understands athletes’ desire to honor victims of conflict, the Games must remain free from political expression under Rule 50.2 of the Olympic Charter. He was, however, permitted to wear a black armband instead.

Following the ban, Ukrainian billionaire and Shakhtar Donetsk owner Rinat Akhmetov donated more than $200,000 to support the athlete’s career. In a public statement, he praised the racer for standing by his values and said the donation was meant to help him continue competing and advocating for remembrance. The sum reportedly matches the amount Ukraine awards to Olympic gold medalists. While the controversy sparked debate about freedom of expression in sport, the donation highlighted strong support from within Ukraine for the athlete’s actions and message.