Speculation is reported to be mounting that Vladimir Putin will marry a gymnast less than half his age.
The Russian president, 56, who is already married, is said to have decided to tie the knot with Alina Kabaeva, 24, according to the Daily Telegraph website.
Ms Kabaeva is a rhythmic gymnast and model as well as being a member of the Russian parliament.
She represented Russia at both the Sydney and Athens Olympic Games.
According to the website, Mr Putin is said to have split from his wife Ludmilla, 50, two months ago.
Rumours of Mr Putin and Ms Kabaeva’s courtship are said to have been circulating unofficially for some time.
The website says a party planner in St Petersburg has told Russian newspaper, Moskovski Korrespondent, that there is a bidding war going on to organise the couple’s lavish wedding reception.
It claims the couple will marry in June, little more than a month after he steps down as Russian president.
