Ovechkin was asked to join Putin video, Capitals say

The Washington Capitals said Alex Ovechkin had been “asked by his country” to appear in a campaign video linked to Russian President Vladimir Putin, after the hockey star's appearance drew criticism.

A Capitals spokesman said Ovechkin is a Russian citizen who lives in Moscow with his family during the offseason and was asked while in Russia to take part in the video campaign. The team said its focus and Ovechkin's was on the coming season and his role in Washington.

Ovechkin is among prominent Russians shown in a campaign video for the ruling United Russia party before nationwide elections this week. He has previously supported Putin, including by founding the “PutinTeam” movement in 2017.

Former Czech ice hockey star Dominik Hasek criticised the latest appearance on social media, accusing those in the video of supporting Russia's war in Ukraine.

Ovechkin, 40, holds the NHL goals record with 929 goals in 1,573 games. In July, he signed a one-year, $4.25 million contract for a 22nd season with the Capitals.