NHL star Alex Ovechkin has been unapologetic when it comes to showing his support for Russian President Vladimir Putin and now he is ready to take it a step further.
The Washington Post reports that the Washington Capitals star will create a social movement in support of Putin called the Putin Team. Ovechkin revealed the plan on his Instagram account.
Below is a translation of the original message by the Post.
“Personal achievements and medals – all of this great, but in hockey, like with everything, to win it’s important to have a team. Only a team is capable of changing the course of a game, achieve the impossible. Lately, in the Western Press, I’m noticing a comparison to Putin’s team. And you know, I really liked that comparison. Personally, I’m ready to be a member of that team. I never hid my relationship with our president, always openly supported him.
“I’m certain that there are many of us that support Vladimir Putin. Let’s unite and show everyone a strong and united Russia. Today, I want to announce a social movement in the name of Putin Team. Be a part of this team – to me it’s a privilege, it’s like the feeling of when you put on the jersey of the Russian team, knowing that the whole country is rooting for you.”
The announcement comes as Russia is scheduled to hold a presidential election in March. Putin has yet to formally announce whether he plans to run.