Oleg Smirnov, president of the Ryazan Region Ice Hockey Federation, discussed taking to the ice against Russian President Vladimir Putin. This information comes from the official site of the Continental Hockey League (KHL).
Playing with the head of state carries a blend of honor and responsibility. It serves as a powerful motivation, inspiring players not only among gala participants but across Ryazan and throughout Russia to lace up their skates and pursue the sport with renewed energy.
Would he be suitable for such a match? Absolutely. The event is intended to showcase rather than compete at a typical tournament level. It is widely known that leaders often begin skating later in life, and in a show context this moment deserves respect and care to ensure the safety of the head of state.
Putin has attended Night Hockey League games on several occasions. Those appearances are demonstrations, not official contests. The most recent ice session occurred in May 2021, when his team, Hockey Legends, defeated a prominent NHL squad with a 13–9 score, and Putin himself contributed eight goals to the result.
Historically, the final seasons of great players are often marked by reflective choices and notable performances. The reference to Wayne Gretzky and Ovechkin underscores the enduring allure of elite hockey and the influence of exceptional careers on the sport’s culture. (Source: KHL official site and related coverage)