Finnish sports undergo major transitions in football and ice hockey

Major shifts are occurring in Finnish professional sports as new seasons begin in both football and ice hockey. In Oulu, AC Oulu faces a decisive final regular-season football match to secure a spot in the upper championship series. This coincides with the team's transition to the new Heinäpää stadium.

In ice hockey, the SM-liiga enters a new era with a restructured league format where the three lowest-ranked teams will be relegated to a new B-league. A central highlight is the return of Jokerit to the top division after a 12-year absence. Hockey legend Jari Kurri, who previously held leadership roles at the club, expressed enthusiasm for the team's return and its competitive roster.

While football fans in Oulu are optimistic, ice hockey supporters face uncertainty. The Kärpät team is attempting to regain its status as a top-tier contender following several seasons of struggle and declining attendance. The upcoming hockey season also marks a significant economic milestone, with total player budgets across the league expected to exceed 50 million euros for the first time.