Google makes statement on Russian gay laws

As the Winter Games get under way in Sochi, Google is quietly but vibrantly adding its voice to the chorus of US companies speaking out against Russia's law that restricts gay-rights activities.

The California-based internet search company transformed its home page into a show of support for gay rights Thursday with a Google Doodle depicting athletes against a rainbow-coloured backdrop.

Below the logo is a two-sentence section of the Olympic charter that begins, "The practice of sport is a human right."

The updated logo appears on Google pages worldwide.

Although Google typically updates its themed daily Doodles at midnight Eastern US time, the logo's late afternoon debut means it will be seen in Russia on the day of the Olympics' opening ceremony.

A Google representative had no comment, saying the company wants the Doodle to speak for itself.