Launching the Digital Memorial Helmet Museum
At the Molodvizh 2026 event in Lviv, organizers revealed plans for an online museum dedicated to 22 Ukrainian athletes who lost their lives due to the ongoing Russian invasion. Central to this initiative is a commemorative helmet worn by skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych, featuring portraits of the fallen sportsmen. Crafted by artist Iryna Prots, this helmet was used by Heraskevych during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan.
On February 9, 2026, Vladyslav Heraskevych trained on Milan’s Olympic track while wearing the helmet adorned with portraits of his deceased compatriots. However, the following day, the International Olympic Committee barred him from using the helmet during the Olympic competitions, resulting in Heraskevych being stripped of his accreditation. In response, Ukraine’s skeleton team coach Mykhailo Heraskevych called for the resignation of IOC President Kirsty Coventry. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky publicly thanked Vladyslav for his courageous stance and awarded him the Order of Freedom.
Features of the Online Museum
The virtual museum will showcase a detailed 3D model of the memorial helmet, complete with the portraits of the athletes who died. The website will be bilingual and enriched with photos, videos, personal stories, and memories honoring those lost. The official launch is scheduled for February 12, 2027, coinciding with the anniversary of Heraskevych’s Olympic suspension.
“Some things are more important than medals. I stood up for what I believe in.” – Vladyslav Heraskevych
The project is a collaboration between the Vladyslav Heraskevych Foundation and the Memorial Memory Platform, aiming to preserve the legacy of the fallen athletes as individuals.
Creating the Digital Memorial Helmet Museum represents a powerful tribute to Ukraine’s lost sports heroes. Beyond commemorating the tragic toll of war, the project highlights sport as a vital arena for expressing civic values and solidarity. The IOC’s decision to ban the helmet sparked widespread debate, underscoring the ongoing importance of remembrance and support for those who have sacrificed in today’s world.