The 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics were President Vladimir Putin's pet project as he sought to expand Russia's global clout, boost its prestige and impress the world. It became the most expensive Olympics ever — summer or winter — with costs that ballooned to $55 billion and fueled suspicions of rampant corruption. Critics pointed to environmental damage from construction projects and abuse of migrant workers who built the 11 sports venues, railways, roads and other infrastructure for athletes and spectators.