Ovechkin Defends Russian Players as Canada Prepares to Bar Team
The NHL captain declined to critique Prime Minister Mark Carney's decision to deny visas for the World Junior Championship, citing fan desire for top talent.
By Lorenzo Patterson ·
Russian hockey players simply wish to represent their nation, according to Alexander Ovechkin. The Washington Capitals captain made the remark Tuesday after a morning skate in Ottawa, moments before facing the Senators. Ovechkin, who holds the NHL record for career goals, avoided taking a direct stand on the administrative fight over Russia's return to international competition.
The dispute began following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which triggered a suspension from global hockey events. Late last month, the Court of Arbitration for Sport ordered the International Ice Hockey Federation to reinstate Russia. The ruling takes effect with the World Junior Championship scheduled to open in Alberta on Dec. 26.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney countered the arbitration ruling by stating Russia would not be permitted to play in the tournament. The government is considering withholding visas to enforce that stance. Adam van Koeverden, Canada's secretary of state for sport, explained the move stems from claims that the Kremlin uses sporting victories for propaganda to bolster domestic support for the war.
Ovechkin disputed the propaganda accusation when prompted during his press conference. He noted that fans want to see the best athletes and young future stars on the ice, but acknowledged that the final decision does not rest with the players. "It's his thoughts, his decision," Ovechkin said regarding Carney's position.
Wayne Gretzky, the league's all-time points leader, expressed understanding for Carney's approach. Gretzky noted that many players and Canadians share the prime minister's sentiment. Ovechkin surpassed Gretzky in total goals in April 2025, a milestone Gretzky witnessed in person.
Opposition to Russia's return extends beyond Canada. Sweden, Finland, and the Czech Republic have indicated their national teams will avoid playing Russia while the war continues. The Ukrainian Canadian Congress plans to stage a protest titled "No War Crimes in Hockey" outside the Canadian Tire Centre to object to Ovechkin's public backing of Vladimir Putin.
Ovechkin launched the "Putin Team" social movement in 2017 and appeared in an advertisement for a political party aligned with the Russian president earlier this year. He told reporters in September that he agreed to participate in the ad when asked. Regarding his political ties, Ovechkin stated, "He's my president, but I'm not in politics. I'm an athlete."
