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Alex Ovechkin faces backlash for supporting Putin in campaign ad

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 4:15 PM

Last updated Sep 15, 2026

Alex Ovechkin faces backlash for supporting Putin in campaign ad

Summary

Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals star, is under fire for appearing in a political ad for the United Russia Party supporting Vladimir Putin. The ad, released ahead of the 2026-27 NHL season, features Ovechkin alongside Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov, a controversial figure linked to the conflict in Ukraine. Critics, including former NHL player Dominik Hasek and chef Jose Andres, condemned Ovechkin for his association with a campaign perceived as endorsing Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Ovechkin, who has previously shown support for Putin, claimed he is not involved in politics but hopes for peace. The backlash comes as Ovechkin prepares for the new NHL season, having signed a one-year contract in July.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Ovechkin appears in a political ad for United Russia Party.
•The ad features Sergey Lavrov, linked to Russia's war in Ukraine.
•Dominik Hasek and Jose Andres are among the critics of Ovechkin's involvement.
•Ovechkin has historically supported Putin and faced criticism since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
•He recently signed a one-year contract with the Capitals before the start of the NHL season.

Latest Updates

4:15 PMYahoo Sports — Alex Ovechkin faces backlash over pro-Putin political campaign ad

What they're saying

"
NHL star Alex Ovechkin is facing criticism after appearing in a political ad to support one of "the architects of Russia's war against Ukraine."
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

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