Yanqing (AP) – The Ukrainian skeleton pilot Vladislav Heraskevich sent a political message against a possible war in his homeland at the Winter Games in China.
After the third run, the 23-year-old showed the cameras a self-made note in the national colors of Ukraine with the inscription “No war in Ukraine” in the finish area of the Yanqing ice track.
The International Olympic Committee announced that Heraskevich did not have to face any consequences. It was a general call for peace, and that was the end of the matter. Political messages are forbidden for athletes in Olympic competitions. Before the Tokyo Games last year, however, the IOC modified Rule 50.2 of the Olympic Charter. Accordingly, protests can be made as long as the principles of Olympism are observed, “it is not directed directly or indirectly against people, countries, organizations and/or their dignity” and other athletes are not disturbed in their preparation.
Concerns about a Russian invasion have been growing in Ukraine for weeks. Its President Vladimir Putin had deployed more than 100,000 soldiers on the Russian border with Ukraine. Moscow has so far denied any intention of invading. It is also considered possible that the Russian side wants to stir up fears in order to persuade NATO to make concessions on demands for security guarantees.
Heraskevich justified the action by saying that he wanted to fight for peace. “Like any normal person, I don’t want war. I want peace in my country and in the world,” he said. “It’s my position, so I’m fighting for it. I’m fighting for peace.”