Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladislav Hraskovic was disqualified last week after he insisted on wearing a commemorative helmet commemorating Ukrainian athletes and coaches who died during the Russian invasion, before his request to be reinstated was denied.
Despite the controversial decision by the International Olympic Committee, he is still revered by his country.
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Hraskevich, 27, received at least $200,000 in gifts on Tuesday to help him continue his skeleton career and continue to speak out for his country, the Associated Press reported.
The generous one-time payment reportedly came from Ukrainian businessman Rinat Akhmetov, who made a donation from his charitable foundation equal to the Ukrainian gold medalist’s income.
“Vlad Hraskevich was denied the chance to compete for victory at the Olympics, but he returned to Ukraine as a true winner,” Akhmetov said in a statement, according to the Associated Press. “He has earned the respect and pride of Ukrainians through his actions, and that is the highest reward.”
Akhmetov, owner of Shakhtar Donetsk football club (which has been competing in the Champions League) and the Azov Steel Plant in Mariupol, added: “At the same time, I hope he has enough energy and resources to continue his sporting career and fight for truth, freedom and the memory of those who gave their lives for Ukraine.”
The money will be paid to Hraskevich’s charitable foundation, the Associated Press reported.
This story is being updated.
