Indeed, the Feb. 8 opening ceremonies were the highest rated in history for winter or summer games, according to Nielsen Media Research.

FORBES: Olympics Ratings Won't Stick

He was named official artist of the Olympic Winter Games in Lake Placid and in Sarajevo as well as the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

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"The biggest failure would be our team losing at the Winter Olympic Games, " Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Kozak said in an appearance in London during this summer's games.

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