Finnish Liiga hockey clubs confront million‑euro losses

Several Finnish SM‑liiga clubs are projected to finish the current fiscal year with multi‑million‑euro deficits ahead of the new season. According to league board chairman Jyrki Seppä, both Tappara and Ilves from Tampere are expected to lose up to €1.5 million each, while Kiekko‑Espoo also faces a sizable shortfall. Earlier reports had already highlighted financial strain at Pelicans and Jukurit.

Seppä said the situation reflects broader cost pressures – rising player salaries, rent, energy and other operating expenses – compounded by the loss of extra revenue that came from hosting the recent Ice Hockey World Championships in the Nokia Arena. Although attendance has been strong, it has not offset the higher outlays. The league plans to introduce a new series format that will see the bottom three teams relegated to the second tier, hoping the changes and a better overall economy may ease clubs’ financial burdens in coming years.