US bobsleigh team to advertise Russian vodka

Moscow alcohol-making company Crystal signed a contract with the U.S. bobsled team for advertising its vodka called "Putinka." Under the terms of the contract, in the 2013-2014 season, the "Putinka" logo will adorn the bob of the female duo of Jamie Greubel and Emily Azevedo. 

The reason for such a PR move is the ban on alcohol advertising in Russia, which came into force on 1 January 2013. Advertising vodka and other alcoholic beverages can now be conducted only at the point of their sale.

However, companies circumvent the ban by placing their advertising at sports events held abroad, that are broadcast by central Russian TV channels.