Putin's 'lover' pictured with children sparks 'secret family' rumours
VLADIMIR PUTIN’S alleged lover was seen in public accompanied by two young boys, intensifying rumours the head of state could have a secret family.
Vladimir Putin's alleged lover Alina Kabaeva was spotted with two boys at an ice skating show
Former Olympics gymnast Alina Kabaeva, 33, has been rumoured to be Putin’s lover since 2008.
The gold medallist has denied having a relationship with the Russian president.
Putin does not comment on his private matters since divorcing wife Lyudmila three years ago.
Kabaeva was photographed at a skating show at the Megasport Arena in Moscow with two boys, prompting speculation the boys could be Putin’s children.
She had denied having children in 2013 when news of the president’s divorce came to light. However some outlets claim the sportswoman gave birth in 2015.
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The ex-gymnast was ‘hiding a wedding ring’ from the cameras
A witness at the Megasport Arena said the Olympic star was wearing a wedding ring which she tried to hide from the cameras.
The photos at the ice skating show were taken on the eve of Russian parliamentary elections, won by Putin’s party.
According to Russian media, Kabaeva took pictures of the boys with gymnast Alexei Nemov and figure skater Evgeni Plyuschenko.
The pictures of Kabaeva and children prompted rumours about Putin’s secret family
Kabaeva won a gold medal for rhythmic gymnastics in the 2004 Olympics in Athens.
In March this year, she took over Sports-Express newspapers in a bid to improve Russia’s reputation in sports amid the Maria Sharapova doping scandal.
The pair have denied being in a relationship
Putin divorced wife Lyudmila in 2013
In 2014 the ex-gymnast became Chair of the Board of Directors of the largest Russian media conglomerate National Media Group.
She has also been a member of the Russian Parliament from 2007 to 2014.
Kabaeva won a gold medal during the 2004 Olympics in Athens
The glamorous Brunette was first linked to Putin in 2008 when media reported the pair had been seen kissing in a Moscow restaurant.
The Kremlin has denied allegations the president was in an extra-marital relationship, with Putin previously saying: “I have a private life in which I do not permit interference.”