Washington, D.C. – The Capitals announced Tuesday that long‑time captain Alex Ovechkin was approached to take part in a video advertisement for Vladimir Putin’s United Russia party while he was home in Moscow this summer. The team’s spokesperson, Sergey Kocharov, said Ovechkin’s participation was limited to a brief appearance and that the player’s primary focus remains on the upcoming NHL season.
Team statement emphasizes community impact
“Alex Ovechkin is a Russian citizen who lives in Moscow with his family during the offseason and will live there following his retirement,” Kocharov told the Associated Press. “As the longest‑tenured athlete in Washington, D.C., and a pillar of the community, his focus and ours is on the season ahead and the continued impact he makes on the ice and in our city.”
Ad content and reaction
In the commercial, Ovechkin stands behind Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Former Soviet star Viacheslav “Slava” Fetisov also appears. The video quickly drew criticism on social media, including a comment from Hall of Famer Dominik Hasek, who called the ad support for Russia’s war against Ukraine.
NHL and Capitals response
The National Hockey League deferred to the Capitals for comment when asked about the ad. The team said it will make Ovechkin available to reporters when training camp opens on Thursday, ahead of his 22nd NHL season.
Ovechkin’s past political statements
Ovechkin, who turns 41 on Thursday, has a history of expressing support for his country. In 2017 he launched a social movement called the “Putin Team” and told reporters, “I just support my country.” When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Ovechkin said, “Please, no more war,” and later described President Putin as “my president, but I’m not in politics. I’m an athlete.”
Career highlights
On the ice, Ovechkin continues to add to his legacy. He broke Wayne Gretzky’s long‑standing goals record in April 2024 with his 895th goal and has since tallied 929 career goals since being drafted first overall by the Capitals in 2004.
Looking ahead
As training camp approaches, the Capitals are focused on building on last season’s success and preparing for another deep playoff run. Ovechkin’s off‑ice activities, while drawing public attention, have not altered the team’s commitment to its fans and the Washington community.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
