Who are Vladimir Putin’s seven rivals in Russia’s presidential race?

His most vocal critic, opposition leader Alexei Navalny, has been barred from the race.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (Matt Dunham/AP)

By Vladimir Isachenkov, Associated Press

Russia’s election officials have registered eight candidates for the March 18 presidential election, including President Vladimir Putin.

With his approval ratings topping 80% and rivals trailing far behind, Mr Putin is set to easily win a fourth term.