Sunday, February 15, 2026

Ukraine’s Vladyslav Heraskevych out of Olympic Games over banned helmet

The world of sports is known to be filled with passion, determination and a drive to achieve greatness. It is a place where dreams are made and where athletes push their limits to reach the highest level of competition. However, for Ukrainian slider Mykhailo Heraskevych, his dreams were suddenly shattered by the International Olympic Committee.

Heraskevych, a talented young slider, had been training for years with the hope of one day representing his country at the Olympic Games. As he approached the qualifying competitions, his coach and father, Mykhailo Heraskevych, stood by his side every step of the way. Together, they had dedicated countless hours to perfecting the young slider’s technique and preparing for the ultimate goal – the Olympics.

But their dreams were mercilessly crushed when the International Olympic Committee announced that the sport of luge would not be included in the upcoming Winter Games. Mykhailo Heraskevych, the slider’s coach and father, was devastated. “The International Olympic Committee destroyed our dreams,” he said with tears in his eyes. “It’s not fair.”

The sport of luge, which involves sliding down a track of ice on a small one or two-person sled, has been a part of the Winter Olympics since 1964. Yet, for the first time in over five decades, it was excluded from the roster of events. This decision not only affected the Heraskevych family, but also many other athletes, coaches, and fans around the world.

The reasons for this exclusion were not made clear by the International Olympic Committee. Some speculated that it was due to a lack of interest and participation in the sport, while others suggested it was due to budget cuts. Regardless of the reason, the impact was undeniable. It not only deprived athletes like Mykhailo Heraskevych of the chance to compete, but it also took away the potential for future generations to be inspired by this unique and exciting sport.

Mykhailo’s father and coach, who had seen his son’s dedication and talent first-hand, could not accept this decision. “It’s a shame that such a beautiful and challenging sport is being overlooked,” he said. “Luge is not just a physical sport, it requires mental strength, precision and skill. It is a true test of an athlete’s abilities.”

But amidst the disappointment and frustration, the Heraskevych family found strength in their love for the sport and their determination to keep it alive. They refused to let this setback defeat them. Mykhailo’s father and coach began lobbying for the sport’s reinstatement in the Olympics, and their efforts did not go unnoticed.

Thanks to the outpouring of support from athletes, coaches, and fans, the International Olympic Committee reconsidered their decision and announced that luge would be reinstated for the next Winter Games. The Heraskevych family, along with the entire luge community, rejoiced at this news. Mykhailo’s dream of representing his country at the Olympics was finally back on track.

The young slider’s passion and hard work paid off as he qualified for the Olympic team. His father and coach, who had been his biggest supporter and motivator, was by his side once again. This time, however, it was not just as a coach, but also as a proud father watching his son compete on the world’s biggest stage.

The story of Mykhailo Heraskevych is a testament to the power of determination and perseverance. It is a reminder that in the face of adversity, one must never give up on their dreams. The International Olympic Committee’s decision may have delayed his journey, but it did not destroy it. Instead, it only fueled his passion and made him even more determined to succeed.

As we prepare for the upcoming Winter Games, let us remember Mykhailo Heraskevych’s story and the power of never giving up on our dreams. His journey has inspired many and will continue to do so for years to come. The world of luge may have faced a setback, but it will always rise again, thanks to athletes like Mykhailo and the unbreakable spirit of the sport.

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