Latvia bars Alexander Ovechkin from entry after pro-Putin ad
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 18, 2026, 8:58 PM
Last updated Sep 18, 2026
Latvia's Foreign Ministry has indefinitely banned NHL player Alexander Ovechkin from entering the country due to his appearance in an advertisement for Russian President Vladimir Putin's political party, United Russia. The announcement, made on September 18, follows criticism over Ovechkin's long-standing support for Putin. In the ad, Ovechkin is seen but does not speak, appearing alongside other Russian celebrities. The ban also includes Russian sports administrator Umar Kremlev. Ovechkin addressed the controversy at a Washington Capitals media event, asserting his identity and support for Russia while expressing hope for peace. The NHL has yet to comment on the implications of Ovechkin's actions.
- •Latvia's Foreign Ministry issued the ban on September 18.
- •Ovechkin appeared in a United Russia political advertisement.
- •He claimed he supports his country and desires peace.
- •NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has not responded to the controversy.
- •Umar Kremlev is also barred from entering Latvia.
- 8:58 PMRussian Machine Never Breaks — Latvia bans Alex Ovechkin from entering country, adds hockey star to persona-non-grata list - RMNB
- 5:13 AMYahoo Sports — Latvia bars Ovechkin after appearance in pro-Putin ad
"More fallout from Alex Ovechkin's appearance in a United Russia campaign video emerged late Thursday, with Latvia banning the Washington Capitals captain…
"Latvia has barred NHL superstar Alexander Ovechkin over appearing in an political ad for Russian President Vladimir Putins' government political
Sources
External links- Russian Machine Never BreaksSep 18, 2026, 8:58 PMLatvia bans Alex Ovechkin from entering country, adds hockey star to persona-non-grata list - RMNB
More fallout from Alex Ovechkin's appearance in a United Russia campaign video emerged late Thursday, with Latvia banning the Washington Capitals captain…
- Yahoo SportsSep 18, 2026, 5:13 AMLatvia bars Ovechkin after appearance in pro-Putin ad
Latvia has barred NHL superstar Alexander Ovechkin over appearing in an political ad for Russian President Vladimir Putins' government political
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