Ovechkin Endorses United Russia in Ad Ahead of Duma Vote

Key points

• Ovechkin appeared in a United Russia campaign ad alongside Sergey Lavrov and RT editor Margarita Simonyan.
• The ad aired ahead of Russia’s September 18-20 parliamentary elections.
• Lavrov stated in the clip that those who come with a sword should expect no mercy.
• Ovechkin returned to the US to begin his 22nd NHL season with the Washington Capitals.
• Jose Andres and TSN reporter Rick Westhead criticized Ovechkin’s participation in the ad.

Background

Ovechkin has a long history of supporting Vladimir Putin, including launching the PutinTeam movement in 2018. He previously avoided condemning Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, stating he was just an athlete. The current ad follows a period of heightened tensions, including a bombing in Crimea that disrupted Putin’s public outreach campaign in August 2026.

How outlets are covering it

RMNB and The Guardian emphasize Ovechkin’s long-standing support for Putin and the controversial nature of the ad. Meduza provides a factual account of the ad’s participants and the upcoming elections. Mediaite highlights the viral reaction and criticism from figures like Jose Andres. All sources agree on the basic facts of Ovechkin’s appearance in the ad.

Why it matters

The ad links a prominent international sports figure to a political party supporting a regime under international sanctions for its war in Ukraine. It highlights the intersection of sports and politics and the potential consequences for athletes who support controversial regimes.

What to watch

Ovechkin will begin his 22nd NHL season with the Washington Capitals. The Washington Capitals have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the ad.