Surprising Facts About Vladimir Putin: From Biker Gang to Super Bowl Ring Owner

Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, has more to his life than just leading a nation. Here, we explore some lesser-known facts about him, including his hidden affiliations with biker gangs and an unusual yet iconic moment with the owner of the Patriots.

Putin and the Night Wolves: A Motorcycling Connection

While Russia may not be the first place you'd think of when it comes to biker culture, Vladimir Putin has a unique and intriguing connection with the world of motorbiking through his association with the Night Wolves. This is not just any biker gang; the Night Wolves are Russia’s largest and most prominent motorcycle club, known for their strong nationalist views.

Russia's President does not shy away from casual outings with the Night Wolves, often seen riding alongside them on motorbikes, donning leather jackets and riding Harley-Davidsons. This image of Putin breaking the conventional appearance of political leaders provides a fascinating insight into a subculture that he clearly appreciates.

Patriots' Owner Gives Putin a Super Bowl Ring

The event that truly captured the world's attention took place in 2005, during a press conference with heads of state in Russia. The owner of the American Football team, the New England Patriots, Robert Kraft, was in Russia visiting a friend, Sandy Weill, who was President of Citigroup.

During the press conference, Kraft was eagerly showing off the Super Bowl Ring he had just received from the recent victory of the Patriots at Super Bowl 39. The crowd was surprised when someone came up with the idea to show the ring to Putin. Putin admired the ring, put it on his finger, and joked that he could kill someone with a ring like that. Intrigued by the idea, he proceeded to put the ring in his pocket.

Robert Kraft, who was holding out his hand, was left expecting to retrieve his precious ring. However, three bodyguards immediately surrounded Putin, and he walked away with the ring.

After this incident, the White House publicly urged Kraft to say that the ring was a gift, thus avoiding international conflict. Kraft, while reluctant to give away the 4.9 carat diamond ring, shared the story for his friends and said, "It’s a great story I get to tell my friends and I can’t believe my ring is in the Kremlin."

Officials from the Kremlin responded, saying they would be happy to send Kraft an identical ring as a gift from Putin, thus resolving the situation diplomatically and preserving the relationship between the two nations.

These facts reveal a side of Vladimir Putin that is often overlooked:
- His passion for motorbiking and the subculture it represents.
- His unexpected sense of humor and light-heartedness during moments of political importance.
- His ability to maintain a good-natured relationship with Western leaders, even in seemingly small moments.

Vladimir Putin, indeed, is a figure of many facets, each offering a unique and intriguing glimpse into the complex nature of modern politics and culture.