Ukrainian Athlete Gets $200K After Olympic Disqualification

When Vladyslav Heraskevych was barred from competing at the Milan Cortina Olympics, he lost his chance at a medal but gained something more powerful: recognition as a true champion of his country.

The 27-year-old skeleton racer was disqualified last week after refusing to remove his "helmet of memory," which displayed images of more than 20 Ukrainian athletes and coaches killed during the war with Russia. For Heraskevych, honoring the fallen meant more than any race.

On Tuesday, Ukrainian businessman Rinat Akhmetov stepped in with an extraordinary gift. Through his charity foundation, Akhmetov donated over $200,000 to support Heraskevych's athletic career and his advocacy work for Ukraine on the international stage.

The amount isn't random. It matches exactly what Ukrainian Olympic gold medalists receive, sending a clear message about how the country views Heraskevych's sacrifice.

"Vlad Heraskevych was denied the opportunity to compete for victory at the Olympic Games, yet he returns to Ukraine a true winner," Akhmetov said. "The respect and pride he has earned among Ukrainians through his actions are the highest reward."

Akhmetov owns Shakhtar Donetsk soccer club and the Azovstal steel works in Mariupol, both symbols of Ukrainian resilience. His foundation directed the funds to Heraskevych's own charity foundation, ensuring the athlete and his coaching staff have resources to continue competing internationally.

Why This Inspires

Sometimes standing up for what matters costs us opportunities we've worked years to achieve. Heraskevych trained his entire life for the Olympics, only to choose conscience over competition.

But his story proves that authentic acts of honor rarely go unnoticed. The support flooding in from his country and beyond shows that people recognize real courage when they see it.

The gift ensures Heraskevych can keep doing both things he loves: competing at the highest level and making sure the world never forgets those who gave everything for Ukraine's freedom.

In a world where athletes often face pressure to stay silent on difficult issues, Heraskevych's choice reminds us that some statements are worth making, no matter the cost.