Author: Finland Review

On Saturday, an unexpected incident marred the excitement of a rally event in Savitaipale, leaving one participant injured. According to police reports, the emergency services were alerted after a rally car struck an individual on Partakostentie. Early investigations suggest that the injury occurred during a collision involving two rally cars within a designated closed section of the course. The injured party has since been transported to the hospital for treatment. The accident took place at approximately 13:55, as participants and spectators alike were engrossed in the thrills of the competition. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent…

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Concerns Rise Over Alleged Harassment in the SDP Allegations of harassment and inappropriate conduct within the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) Parliamentary group have surfaced, prompted by statements from MP Ville Merinen in a recent Yle documentary series. In the interview, Merinen shed light on troubling incidents, suggesting that the treatment of assistants by some MPs may be far from professional. His comments come as part of a broader exploration of power dynamics in politics, aptly titled Algorithm of Power. Following these revelations, SDP MP Kim Berg has publicly apologized for making inappropriate remarks in front of female colleagues. In a…

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A swirling cloud of flies has become a metaphor for turmoil in Oulu, where the local ice hockey club, Kärpät, finds itself in a downward spiral. Determined to uncover the root causes behind this troubling trend, we spoke to longtime insiders who did not shy away from sharing their thoughts. One remarked ominously, “The hole has been dug for a long time.” Yet amid the uncertainty, the unwavering passion for the black and yellow of Kärpät persists. Fans fill the arenas, their voices rising in unison to sing the dozens of anthems dedicated to their beloved team. As the community…

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In a recent statement from Brussels, Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo emphasized that allies should refrain from exerting undue pressure on each other or advocating for the annexation of a partner nation’s territory. Open image Viewer Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (NCP) addressed reporters following an informal EU leaders’ meeting in Brussels on Thursday. Image: Nicolas Tucat / AFP The ongoing diplomatic friction stemming from U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal to acquire Greenland has cast a shadow over relations between the EU and the United States, as noted by Prime Minister Orpo. In a briefing after his discussions with…

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Vesa Viitakoski Joins Lappeenranta’s SaiPa as Assistant Coach In an exciting development for local ice hockey enthusiasts, former professional player Vesa Viitakoski, 54, has been appointed as an assistant coach for SaiPa’s upcoming 2026–2027 season. Hailing from Lappeenranta, Viitakoski began his illustrious playing career at SaiPa and has maintained strong ties to the club. Current head coach Raimo Helminen fondly remembers Viitakoski as a long-time companion from their days at Ilves, acknowledging the bond they forged on and off the ice. Viitakoski’s playing record is nothing short of impressive. He has skated in 803 regular season games in the Finnish…

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The latest developments regarding U.S. President Donald Trump and his controversial interest in Greenland have captured the attention of Finnish media this Thursday morning. Helsingin Sanomat reports that Trump has rescinded his earlier threat to impose punitive tariffs on Finland and seven other nations that obstruct his ambitions for a U.S. acquisition of Greenland. This surprising reversal came after Trump’s discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Wednesday. Following their meeting, the President declared that an “understanding had been reached.” While specifics about this ‘understanding’ remain murky, HS cites a CNN source…

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Throughout 2026, the Finland, Naturally team is embracing the Sleep Outdoors for a Night challenge, inviting members to step out of their comfort zones and into the great outdoors. Kicking off the year was Maarit, who braved a chilly January night along the banks of the Ounasjoki River in Rovaniemi, Lapland. As a service provider and customer advisor for Finland, Naturally, Maarit is often seen at the Finnish Nature Center Haltia in Nuuksio National Park, where she assists visitors and guides school groups. For her overnight adventure, she chose a spot that held deep personal significance: the campsite was set…

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HIFK Welcomes Back Goalkeeper Hugo Alnefelt After Injury In a significant boost for Helsinki IFK, the SM league club announced the return of goalkeeper Hugo Alnefelt to the roster. The 24-year-old Swede is set to reclaim his spot in goal after a challenging period on the sidelines. Alnefelt suffered a concussion during a home match against Ilves on January 9. In a harrowing moment, he was struck in the head by Ilves forward Teemu Engberg, leading to a fall that left him motionless on the ice. Medical staff quickly intervened, and he was taken off the rink on a stretcher.…

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The crisis helpline in Finland is stepping up to provide essential support, offering assistance in English for those in need. Mieli Mental Health Finland reports that its Crisis Helpline experienced an unprecedented surge in calls last year. In 2025, volunteers answered over 110,000 inquiries, marking an increase of around 10,000 from the previous year. Overall, the helpline received nearly 320,000 calls, and the response rate improved significantly, rising to 35 compared to 26 in 2024. For those seeking help, the Crisis Helpline can be reached at 09 2525 0116. It operates on Mondays from 4 PM to 8 PM, and…

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While Haukkalampi stands as the most frequented entrance to Nuuksio National Park, it still offers a chance for tranquility—provided you choose your timing wisely. If you find yourself with an opportunity to visit Nuuksio on a winter weekday, particularly outside the holiday rush, do seize it. Recently, I ventured into this serene winter landscape with my colleagues from the Finnish Nature Center Haltia and my spouse, Joel. Our destination was the picturesque areas of Haukanholma and Mustalampi. The hike provided a perfect escape from everyday life, showcasing all the enchanting aspects of wintery Nuuksio: the soothing sounds of a nearby…

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