Zelensky slams Olympics for ‘playing into Russia’s hands’ after Ukraine athlete gets Disqualified

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has strongly condemned the disqualification of Ukrainian athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych after he competed wearing a helmet featuring the images of fallen Ukrainian sportsmen.

In a sharply worded statement posted on social media, Zelensky criticised the International Olympic Committee, accusing its leadership of indirectly benefiting aggressors through the decision. He argued that the move contradicts the core ideals of Olympism, which he said should be rooted in fairness and the promotion of peace.

“Sport must not become an excuse for forgetting,” Zelensky said, adding that the Olympic movement should contribute to ending wars rather than serving political interests.

The Ukrainian leader praised Heraskevych’s actions, describing the helmet as a tribute to athletes who lost their lives amid the conflict. According to him, the gesture symbolised honour and remembrance and served as a global reminder of the impact of Russia’s invasion.

Zelensky insisted that the athlete had violated no rules, while accusing Russia of repeatedly breaching Olympic principles by continuing military actions during the Games.

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