NHL star Alexander Ovechkin says his decision to appear in a political campaign advertisement for Russia’s United Russia party was driven by his nationality. In remarks reported on Thursday, he said, “I’m Russian,” and suggested he sees his post-hockey plans as staying in Russia.
The United Russia party is backed by President Vladimir Putin, and Ovechkin’s appearance draws attention because of his status in the NHL. Across the coverage provided, outlets focus on his explanation for taking part in the advertisement and present his comments as a direct response to why he filmed the political spot. The reporting centers on what Ovechkin said about his motivation rather than providing additional details about the ad itself.
Overall, the accounts align on the core points: Ovechkin appears in a United Russia campaign advertisement, he links the decision to being Russian, and the party is associated with Putin’s political support.
