The President’s message reads, in part:
“We mourn the passing of an outstanding athlete whose name is associated with brilliant victories in Russian hockey. Over the course of many years, Vladimir Krutov was the main striking force of our national team. A natural born forward and a sincere and open person, he was a true icon for millions of fans. Vladimir Krutov will forever live on in the annals of world sport and in the memories of hockey lovers.”
Vladimir Krutov died on June 6, 2012 at the age of 52.