Alex Ovechkin, the guy still chasing Gretzky’s record, stated he’s “for peace and love” at media day Thursday, a wild turn after a video surfaced this week showing him in an ad for a party aligned with Vladimir Putin. This isn’t just some casual endorsement. The Russian star appeared standing right behind Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in the commercial for the United Russia party, with fellow Soviet legend Viacheslav Fetisov also participating. It’s a move that’s got everyone buzzing, especially with the NHL season looming.
Ovi’s Take: Simple As That?
Ovechkin, back for his 22nd season with the Capitals, didn’t back down when pressed about the ad. “I’m Russian, and I support my country,” he said. He added, “I’m for peace and love, and I hope in the world it doesn’t matter who you are, I hope everybody understands everybody wants peace, and everybody hope everything’s going to be OK in the world.” When asked if he hesitated to participate? Nope. “They asked me to do that. I say yes. So it’s as simple as that.” Simple as that, huh? It sure doesn’t feel simple to anyone watching.
The Long Shadow of the ‘Putin Team’
This isn’t Ovi’s first rodeo with Russian politics, not by a long shot. Back in 2017, he famously started a social movement called the “Putin Team,” telling reporters then, “I just support my country.” Fast forward to February 2022, when Russia invaded Ukraine, Ovechkin offered a softer stance, saying “Please, no more war.” At that time, when asked about his relationship with Putin, he made it clear: “He’s my president, but I’m not in politics. I’m an athlete.” It’s a line he’s tried to walk before. This week’s parliamentary election in Russia features nine parties that all support Putin’s policies, with the only party that opposed the war in Ukraine completely barred from the ballot. That context makes Ovi’s latest appearance hit differently.
What’s Next for the Great Eight?
Ovechkin, who just turned 41 on Thursday, isn’t slowing down on the ice, but his off-ice choices certainly demand attention. He confirmed he plans to live in Russia when he retires, saying, “My home is Russia. DC is my second home.” Despite speculation last season might be his last, he’s back for at least another year and remains noncommittal on what happens after 2026-27. Right now, he says he’s focused on training camp. “I have to make the team,” he joked. But with these comments still fresh, it’s clear the conversation around Ovechkin won’t be confined to just goals and assists as the season kicks off. It’s going to be a wild ride.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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