Olympic chiefs have got it badly wrong over Heraskevych ban and owe him an apology | Lizzy Yarnold

Lizzy Yarnold expresses her deep sadness over the IOC's decision to ban skeleton athlete Vladyslav Heraskevych from the Winter Olympics. Heraskevych's helmet, which featured images honoring athletes and children who lost their lives due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, was a poignant tribute. Yarnold emphasizes the emotional impact of the ban, particularly on Heraskevych's family, highlighting the distress evident in his father's reaction upon hearing the news. She argues that the IOC's response was inappropriate and calls for an apology to the athlete. As a former athlete, Yarnold resonates with the emotional turmoil surrounding this situation and reflects on the broader implications for athletes who wish to express their experiences and memories through their sport.

• IOC bans Vladyslav Heraskevych from Winter Olympics.
• Heraskevych's helmet honored victims of the Ukraine invasion.
• Yarnold expresses sadness over the IOC's decision.
• Emotional toll evident in Heraskevych's father's reaction.
• Calls for an apology from the IOC to Heraskevych.