Hockey: Match between Russians and Americans to be played in Moscow, Alexander Ovechkin to participate

A hockey game featuring Russian and American players is scheduled to take place in Moscow on July 1, according to Robert Agee, the American chairman of the Russian American Chamber of Commerce. The event aims to foster goodwill between the two nations through sport.

The idea for a joint match between stars from the NHL and Russia's KHL was initially proposed by Russian President Vladimir Putin in March 2025 during a phone call with then-US President Donald Trump. Kremlin reports indicated that Trump expressed his support for the initiative, reflecting his generally favorable stance towards Putin and Russia.

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The first annual game will be played in the Kristall Ice Palace in Moscow on July 1.

Agee announced at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum that the first annual game will be held at the Kristall Ice Palace in Moscow. The date is intentionally set close to the United States' 250th anniversary on July 4. NHL star Alexander Ovechkin, a prominent supporter of Putin and a longtime player for the Washington Capitals, is confirmed to participate. Details about other players remain scarce, but teams are expected to comprise both professional and amateur athletes.

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Putin's well-known supporter, NHL star forward Alexander Ovechkin, will take part in the event.