From The Banner · Associated Press · · 1m 20s
Capitals address Ovechkin's Russia ad
Alex Ovechkin appeared in a United Russia ad, drawing a careful Capitals response before training camp.
In brief
Alex Ovechkin appeared in a United Russia ad, drawing a careful Capitals response before training camp. Ovechkin's latest political controversy arrives as he enters his 22nd NHL season and remains tied publicly to Putin despite saying he is not political. Originally reported by The Banner.
An ad surfaces
Alex Ovechkin appeared in a video campaign for Vladimir Putin's United Russia party, which came to light this week.
Capitals respond
The Capitals said Ovechkin was asked to take part while he was in Russia during the offseason, where he lives with his family.
“Alex Ovechkin is a Russian citizen who lives in Moscow with his family during the offseason”
Backlash follows
Ovechkin stood behind Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in the commercial. Hall of Famer Dominik Hasek criticized the appearance as support for Russia's war in Ukraine.
Questions await camp
The NHL referred questions to Washington. Ovechkin is expected to speak with reporters Thursday when training camp opens.
A long Putin tie
Ovechkin launched the Putin Team movement in 2017 and said then, "I just support my country." After Russia invaded Ukraine, he called for no more war.
“Please, no more war”
Still chasing history
Ovechkin turns 41 on Thursday and is entering his 22nd NHL season. He broke Wayne Gretzky's goals record in April 2025 and now has 929 career goals.
What to remember
Ovechkin's latest political controversy arrives as he enters his 22nd NHL season and remains tied publicly to Putin despite saying he is not political.
