Putin romantically linked to torch bearer

Russian torch bearer Alina Kabaeva is romantically linked to President Vladimir Putin, according to reports.

Putin announced his divorce from wife Lyudmila in June, having last been seen in public together in May 2012.

Kabaeva and Putin, who reportedly have a son, are rumoured to have been a couple since 2008.

The rumour surfaced in a Russian newspaper, but was quickly shut down.

Kabaeva was one of six torch bearers during the opening ceremony on Friday.