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Liiga
Current season, competition or edition:
Current sports event 2025–26 Liiga season
FormerlySM-sarja (1933–1975)
SM-liiga (1975–2013)
SportIce hockey
Founded1975; 50 years ago (1975)
First season1975–76
CEOMikko Pulkkinen
MottoSe on totta (It's for real)
No. of teams16
CountryFinland
Most recent
champion		KalPa (1st title)
(2024–25)
Most titlesTappara (13 titles)
BroadcastersTelia Company, TV5
Level on pyramidLevel 1
Relegation toMestis
International cupChampions Hockey League
Related
competitions		Auroraliiga
Official websiteLiiga.fi

The Liiga, colloquially called the Finnish Elite League in English,[1] FM-ligan in Swedish,[2] and Jääkiekon SM-Liiga in Finnish is the top professional ice hockey league in Finland. The league comprises 16 teams from all around Finland with relegation and promotion between the Mestis.[3][4] The winner of the Liiga playoffs is awarded the Kanada-malja ("Canada Bowl") at the end of each season.[5]

Teams from the Liiga participate in the IIHF's annual Champions Hockey League (CHL), competing for the European Trophy. Participation is based on the strength of the various leagues in Europe (excluding the Eurasian Kontinental Hockey League).

The Liiga was established in 1975 to replace the former SM-sarja, which was fundamentally an amateur competition. The Liiga is not directly overseen by the Finnish Ice Hockey Association, but the league and association have an agreement of cooperation. SM is a common abbreviation for Suomen mestaruus, "Finnish Championship".

History

[edit]

The SM-liiga was established in 1975 to replace the amateur competition SM-sarja. Kalervo Kummola was elected to become the first chief executive officer of the SM-liiga, who served until 1987.[6] The SM-liiga wasn't established unter the Finnish ice Hockey Association that oversees all the other leagues and cups in the country. The playoffs are introduced in Finnish ice hockey for the first time during the inaugural SM-liiga season.[7]

At first there were 10 clubs in the SM-liiga. The league expanded to 12 teams in the 1988–89 season. In 2000, the SM-liiga was expanded by one team, after which the league was closed so that teams could not drop out of the league or move up from a lower league. For the 2005–2006 season, the Mestis winner KalPa was promoted to the series, which met the criteria required for a place in the league.[8] The league qualifiers were brought back for the 2008–09 season. However, as a condition for promotion, the Mestis team that cleared the qualifiers should have bought the shares of the losing Liiga team at the price determined by the league. Otherwise, the losing Liiga team would have continued playing in the league.[9][10] Starting from the 2013–2014 season, the Liiga qualifiers were replaced by a license system where the winner of Mestis can apply for a Liiga license. If granted, the club will be promoted to the league after a transition period of one season.[11][12]

SM-liiga clubs' former jerseys

The league changed its marketing name to just Liiga for the 2013–14 season, and introduced a new logo to match.[13][14][15] The 2019–20 Liiga season was terminated on March 13, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the decision, the final round of the regular season and the playoffs were not played, and the 2020 Finnish hockey championship was not awarded.[16]

For the 2024–25 season, Kiekko-Espoo were promoted to the Liiga as the league expanded to 16 teams.[17] The league was opened for relegation and promotion between the Mestis for the first time since 2013.[18]

According to a 2023 article by The Hockey Writers, the SM-liiga is considered one of the best leagues in Europe and the world along with the Swedish Hockey League and behind the Kontinental Hockey League.[19] Going into the 2024–25 CHL season, the Liiga was ranked the No. 3 league in Europe, allowing them to send their top four teams to compete in the CHL.[20]

Clubs

[edit]

List of clubs

[edit]

The team names are usually the traditional name of the club. All clubs are commonly known by the name of their team. Oy and Ab are the abbreviations for limited company in Finnish and Swedish respectively.

class=notpageimage|
Teams in the 2024–25 Liiga season
Team name Club's registered name Location Home venue Capacity 2024–25 season standing (playoffs) Titles SM-liiga Titles overall
HIFK Oy HIFK Hockey Ab Helsinki Helsinki Ice Hall 8,200 4th (5th) 4 7
HPK HPK Liiga Oy Hämeenlinna Patria-areena 5,360 10th (11th) 2 2
Ilves Ilves-Hockey Oy Tampere Nokia Arena 12,700 2nd (3rd) 1 16
Jukurit Jukurit HC Oy Mikkeli Ikioma Areena 4,200 16th (15th) 0 0
JYP JYP Jyväskylä Oy Jyväskylä Synergia-areena 4,437 14th (did not qualify) 2 2
KalPa KalPa Hockey Oy Kuopio Olvi Arena 5,300 3rd (1st) 1 1
Kiekko-Espoo Kiekko-Espoo Oy Espoo Espoo Metro Areena 6,982 8th (10th) 0 0
KooKoo KooKoo Hockey Oy Kouvola Lumon arena 5,950 6th (9th) 0 0
Kärpät Oulun Kärpät Oy Oulu Oulun Energia Areena 6,300 13th (did not qualify) 8 8
Lukko Rauman Lukko Oy Rauma Kivikylän Areena 4,500 1st (4th) 1 2
Pelicans Lahden Pelicans Oy Lahti Isku Areena 4,403 15th (16th) 0 0
SaiPa Liiga-SaiPa Oy Lappeenranta Kisapuisto 4,820 5th (2nd) 0 0
Sport Hockey-Team Vaasan Sport Oy Vaasa Vaasa Arena 5,185 11th (8th) 0 0
Tappara Tamhockey Oy Tampere Nokia Arena 12,700 9th (7th) 13 20
TPS HC TPS Turku Oy Turku Gatorade Center 10,500 12th (12th) 10 11
Ässät HC Ässät Pori Oy Pori Isomäki Ice Hall 6,150 7th (6th) 2 3

SM-liiga timeline

[edit]
1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020
75
76		 76
77		 77
78		 78
79		 79
80		 80
81		 81
82		 82
83		 83
84		 84
85		 85
86		 86
87		 87
88		 88
89		 89
90		 90
91		 91
92		 92
93		 93
94		 94
95		 95
96		 96
97		 97
98		 98
99		 99
00		 00
01		 01
02		 02
03		 03
04		 04
05		 05
06		 06
07		 07
08		 08
09		 09
10		 10
11		 11
12		 12
13		 13
14		 14
15		 15
16		 16
17		 17
18		 18
19		 19
20		 20
21 		21
22 		22
23 		23
24 		24
25 		25
26
HIFK
Ilves
Tappara
TPS
Ässät
Jokerit
Lukko
KOOVEE
Sport
FoPS
Kiekkoreipas Hockey-
Reipas		 Reipas Lahti Pelicans
Kärpät
SaiPa
HPK
JyP HT JYP
KalPa
KooKoo
JoKP
Kiekko-Espoo Blues Kiekko-Espoo
TuTo
Jukurit

Format

[edit]
Opening match of Tampere Deck Arena: Tappara vs. Ilves in December 2021
SM-liiga studio in the semifinals in 2006

Regular season: All teams play 60 matches. Each match consists of 60 minutes regulation time, and in the event of a tie, the winner is decided by a three-on-three sudden death, 5-minute overtime. Ties after overtime are decided by a shootout, where each team has three shooters in the beginning. If the game is tied after three shooters, the shootout will be decided by individual shooters against one another until one scores and the other does not.

Scoring: A win in regulation time is worth three points, a win by sudden death overtime two points, a loss by sudden death overtime one point and a loss in regulation time zero points. Teams will be ranked by points, and teams tied by points are ranked by the greater number of wins in regulation.

Playoffs: The four best teams at the conclusion of regular season proceed directly to quarter-finals. Teams placing between fifth and twelfth (inclusive) will play preliminary play-offs best-out-of-five – the four winners take the last four slots to quarter-finals. All series since then are best-of-seven. Losers of the semi-finals play a bronze medal match. Teams are paired up for each round according to regular season results so that the highest-ranking team will play against the lowest-ranking, second highest against the second lowest, and so on. Higher-ranking teams get home advantage. Each playoff match consists of a 60-minute regulation time which in the event of a tie is followed by extra 20-minute periods of 5-on-5 sudden death overtime, in which the first team to score wins.[21]

Relegation: The 16th and 15th placed teams will play in the playout series to decide which team plays against the Mestis champion.

Scheduling: The regular season begins around mid-September. It takes a one-and-half-week break around the end of October to the beginning of November, when Team Finland competes in Karjala Tournament. There is a one-week Christmas break. During Winter Olympic years, a break is reserved for the Winter Olympic Games. The regular season is completed around mid-March and preliminary playoffs ensue almost immediately. The playoffs are completed by mid-April, so that all players are available for the World Championships.

Winner

[edit]
The Kanada-malja
Main article: Kanada-malja

The winners of the playoffs receive gold medals and the Kanada-malja, the championship trophy of the Liiga.[22] The winners of the regular season receive a trophy (Harry Lindbladin muistopalkinto) as well,[23] though it is considered less prestigious than the bronze medals of the playoffs.[according to whom?]

Previous winners

[edit]
Main article: List of Finnish ice hockey champions
See also: SM-sarja § Winners
  • 1976 – TPS
  • 1977 – Tappara
  • 1978 – Ässät
  • 1979 – Tappara
  • 1980 – HIFK
  • 1981 – Kärpät
  • 1982 – Tappara
  • 1983 – HIFK
  • 1984 – Tappara
  • 1985 – Ilves
  • 1986 – Tappara
  • 1987 – Tappara
  • 1988 – Tappara
  • 1989 – TPS
  • 1990 – TPS
  • 1991 – TPS
  • 1992 – Jokerit
  • 1993 – TPS
  • 1994 – Jokerit
  • 1995 – TPS
  • 1996 – Jokerit
  • 1997 – Jokerit
  • 1998 – HIFK
  • 1999 – TPS
  • 2000 – TPS
  • 2001 – TPS
  • 2002 – Jokerit
  • 2003 – Tappara
  • 2004 – Kärpät
  • 2005 – Kärpät
  • 2006 – HPK
  • 2007 – Kärpät
  • 2008 – Kärpät
  • 2009 – JYP
  • 2010 – TPS
  • 2011 – HIFK
  • 2012 – JYP
  • 2013 – Ässät
  • 2014 – Kärpät
  • 2015 – Kärpät
  • 2016 – Tappara
  • 2017 – Tappara
  • 2018 – Kärpät
  • 2019 – HPK
  • 2020 – Cancelled because of the Coronavirus pandemic
  • 2021 – Lukko
  • 2022 – Tappara
  • 2023 – Tappara
  • 2024 – Tappara
  • 2025 – KalPa

All time statistical leaders

[edit]

Top 10 regular-season scoring leaders

[edit]

These are the top-ten regular season point-scorers in SM-liiga history. Figures are updated after each completed SM-liiga regular season.

  •  *  – current player

Note: Pos = Position; GP = Games Played; G = Goals; A = Assists; Pts = Points

Points
Player Pos GP G A Pts
Janne Ojanen C 876 283 516 799
Arto Javanainen C 688 462 330 792
Ville Vahalahti LW 977 260 427 687
Kristian Kuusela LW 1107 280 458 738
Jari Lindroos C 649 230 432 662
Esa Keskinen C 478 215 443 658
Matti Hagman C 432 217 432 649
Risto Jalo C 594 275 409 646
Juha-Pekka Haataja RW 881 256 326 582
Raimo Helminen C 751 161 420 581

Top 10 regular-season scoring leaders (imports)

[edit]

These are the top-ten regular season point-scorers for import players in SM-liiga history. Figures are updated after each completed SM-liiga regular season.

  •  *  – current player

Note: Pos = Position; GP = Games Played; G = Goals; A = Assists; Pts = Points

Points
Player Pos GP G A Pts
Éric Perrin C 643 189 343 532
Otakar Janecký C 450 133 346 479
Aleksandr Barkov LW 518 135 281 416
Darren Boyko C 476 171 236 407
Jan Čaloun RW 298 145 230 375
Vjačeslavs Fanduļs C 476 148 211 359
Tomáš Záborský C 468 170 182 352
Allan Measures D 619 100 238 338
Shayne Toporowski RW 464 135 185 320
Stefan Öhman C 419 104 160 264

Top 10 regular-season games played (goaltender)

[edit]

These are the top-ten most regular season games played by a goaltender in SM-liiga history. Figures are updated after each completed SM-liiga regular season.

  •  *  – current player
Leaderboard
Player GP
Eero Kilpeläinen 518
Pasi Kuivalainen 517
Jukka Tammi 510
Sakari Lindfors 471
Jussi Markkanen 471
Hannu Kamppuri 460
Ari-Pekka Siekkinen 447
Mika Lehto 404
Petri Vehanen 399
Teemu Lassila 388

Trophies

[edit]
Portrait
Portrait
Official logos used by the SM-Liiga

The following trophies are awarded by the SM-liiga:

In 1995, the trophies were named after Finnish hockey legends. Before that, trophies were named after sponsors.

Video games

[edit]

Teams from the league have appeared in EA Sports' NHL series, first in NHL 2001 and later on since NHL 2004.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Liiga

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Liiga is the top league in , featuring 16 teams from across the country that compete in a regular season of 60 games per team, followed by playoffs culminating in the determination of the Finnish champion. Founded in 1975 as the SM-liiga to replace the predominantly amateur SM-sarja and establish the nation's first fully league, it is independently operated by its member clubs rather than directly overseen by the Finnish Ice Hockey Association. As the premier tier of Finnish hockey, Liiga includes with the second-division , ensuring competitive balance and talent flow. The league plays a central role in developing players for international success, with many contributing to 's multiple world championships and Olympic medals in . It draws significant crowds, averaging over 4,600 spectators per regular-season game as of the 2024–25 season, and serves as the most popular in by and television viewership. The league's structure emphasizes high-level competition, with teams based in major cities such as , , and , fostering regional rivalries that enhance fan engagement. Broadcast nationwide and internationally, Liiga matches attract broad audiences, underscoring 's status as a cultural cornerstone in .

History

Origins and early years

The SM-sarja, Finland's inaugural national championship series, was established in 1928 as an amateur competition organized initially by the Finnish Football Association in a cup format. Featuring six teams from major cities, it marked the formal beginning of organized elite in the country, with Viipurin Reipas claiming the first title after defeating KIF 5-1 in the final on January 15, 1928, at Salakkalahti in Viipuri. The league transitioned to a round-robin series format in 1933–34 under the newly formed Finnish Ice Hockey Association (Suomen Jääkiekkoliitto), expanding participation and solidifying its role as the top amateur tier. Following , the SM-sarja saw notable growth in popularity and competitiveness, driven by postwar reconstruction and rising interest in . Participation increased as more clubs formed, with Tampere's Ilves dominating the 1945–46 season by winning eight consecutive games and posting a 98–22 goal differential, highlighting the league's expanding depth. By the late 1960s, rapid and suburban further boosted engagement, transforming into a key social activity and laying groundwork for broader national appeal. The shift to professionalism culminated in the creation of the SM-liiga on May 24, 1975, in Tampere, replacing the amateur SM-sarja to address escalating operational costs, organizational inefficiencies, and the growing exodus of talent to international professional opportunities like the NHL. The new league launched with 10 teams, including established clubs such as , TPS, HIFK, Ilves, Ässät, Kärpät, , , and , focusing on centralized development and financial sustainability. Early years involved navigating the balance between amateur traditions and emerging , with the introduction of player salaries in the mid-1970s enabling full-time contracts and marking a pivotal step toward modern elite competition.

Professionalization and expansion

The SM-liiga was established in 1975 as Finland's premier league, succeeding the amateur SM-sarja and marking the country's first fully competition. This transition introduced player salaries, formal contracts, and stricter governance to foster top-level development, initially operating as a semi-professional entity before achieving full professionalism by the mid-1990s when all players became full-time professionals. The inaugural 1975–76 season featured 10 teams playing a 36-game schedule, with combined attendance across the first 11 seasons totaling approximately 900,000 spectators, reflecting early growth in fan interest amid the shift from amateur roots. League expansion accelerated in the 1980s to broaden its reach and competitiveness. joined in 1985, followed by KalPa Kuopio in 1986, and an increase to 12 teams for the 1988–89 season through promotions from lower divisions. Further growth came with Pelicans Lahti's entry in 2000, contributing to the league's expansion to 13 teams in 2000–01, and reaching 14 teams by 2005–06 with KalPa's return after a period in lower divisions. These additions helped distribute talent and fan bases across , supporting structural evolution. The brought an economic and competitive boom to the SM-liiga, fueled by Finland's national team successes and rising international profile, which drew increased NHL scouting and player exports. Attendance surged to around 1.8 million annually by the decade's end, driven by expanded schedules to 44 games per team in 1986–87 and later 56 games from 2000–01, alongside the league's reputation as one of Europe's strongest circuits. Import quotas were introduced in the late , initially limiting teams to two non-Finnish players to prioritize domestic development while allowing limited internationalization, with foreign participation exceeding 20% of rosters by the early . The significantly elevated the SM-liiga's quality, as over 50 Finnish NHL players returned to their domestic clubs, including to TPS Turku and Sami Kapanen and to KalPa Kuopio, boosting on-ice talent and temporary attendance spikes. This influx highlighted the league's role as a high-level alternative during labor disruptions and reinforced its player development pipeline to . Early discussions on salary structures aimed to ensure financial sustainability amid rising costs, though formal caps were not implemented until later collective agreements.

Modern era and rebranding

In 2013, the league underwent a major , dropping the "SM" prefix from its name to become simply Liiga, as part of a to project a more modern and professional image while simplifying branding for international appeal. This change coincided with the introduction of a new featuring a stylized "L" in blue and white, reflecting Finnish ice hockey's national colors and emphasizing the league's elite status. The rebranding also facilitated new sponsorship deals, including a prominent partnership with , Finland's state-owned betting company, which became the title sponsor to boost visibility and revenue through integrated marketing campaigns. Alongside the , the league's structure was updated with the formation of Liiga Oy as a , owned by the participating clubs, to enhance , centralized , and commercial operations in a competitive European sports landscape. This shift allowed for better and long-term planning, contributing to improved league economics. By 2025, these efforts had helped drive average to approximately 4,700 spectators per game as of November 2025. The modern era has seen strategic expansions to broaden the league's footprint and competitive depth. In 2015, from joined as the 15th team following approval for expansion, introducing fresh regional rivalries and diversifying talent pools to balance competition among established clubs. A notable contraction occurred in 2014 when departed for the (KHL), temporarily reducing the league to 13 teams and prompting governance adjustments. More recently, for the 2024–25 season, was added as the 16th franchise, marking the first expansion since 2015 and reinstating promotion/relegation elements to heighten stakes and encourage development across Finnish hockey tiers. These additions have promoted greater parity by integrating emerging markets and youth academies, fostering a more dynamic league structure. Post-2013 developments have included adaptations to global challenges, notably the , which shortened the 2020–21 regular season to 56 games per team amid cancellations, testing protocols, and restrictions, yet the proceeded successfully to crown a champion. The league has also ramped up international scouting efforts, recruiting more foreign players and coaches to elevate skill levels and expose domestic talent to diverse styles, enhancing overall competitiveness. Additionally, sustainability initiatives have gained traction, with the league conducting assessments and promoting eco-friendly practices such as carbon-neutral operations at select arenas, including use and reduced waste programs at clubs like Pelicans.

Teams

Current teams

Liiga consists of 16 teams competing in the 2025–26 season, following the league's expansion in the previous year. These teams are spread across southern, central, and western , with a notable concentration in the Helsinki metropolitan area (three teams) and (two teams). No teams are based in the northernmost regions, such as Lapland, reflecting the league's historical focus on more populous urban centers. The following table lists the current teams, their locations, home arenas, and founding years where documented from official records:
TeamLocationHome ArenaCapacityFoundedBrief Note
ÄssätEnersense Areena6,150-Known for strong fan support in the region.
HIFKHelsingin jäähalli8,2001945A storied club with deep roots in Finnish hockey culture. (contextual historical reference)
Pohjantähti Areena5,3601929Emphasizes youth development and local talent pipelines.
IlvesNokia Arena12,7001931Shares the largest arena in the league with rival .
JukuritIkioma Areena4,200-Focuses on community engagement in eastern .
JYPJyväskyläLähiTapiola Areena4,6281923Operates as a fan-supported organization with strong regional ties.
KalPa Areena5,3001929Draws from a dedicated northern central fanbase.
KärpätOulun Energia Areena6,3001946The northernmost team, known for resilient playstyles.
6,9822024Recent addition via expansion, bringing fresh competition to the capital region.
Lumon Areena5,950-Experienced rapid growth since joining the top tier in 2015, emphasizing aggressive expansion.
RaumaKivikylän Areena4,500-Features intense regional rivalries in western .
PelicansIsku Areena4,403-Consistent performer in the greater Helsinki area.
Lappeenrannan jäähalli4,820-Represents southeastern with a focus on defensive strategies.
Vaasan Sähkö Areena5,185-Promoted in recent years, highlighting bilingual (Finnish-Swedish) community support.
Nokia Arena12,7001932Co-occupies 's premier multi-purpose arena with Ilves.
TPS10,5001922One of the oldest clubs, with a history of international player recruitment.
Ownership models vary across the league, with many teams structured as limited companies (Oy) but incorporating fan involvement through shares or supporter associations; for instance, JYP operates with significant community and fan backing to foster long-term stability. Major rivalries add intensity to the season, particularly the Tampere derby between Ilves and Tappara, which draws large crowds due to the teams' shared history and proximity in Finland's second-largest city. Other notable matchups include the Satakunta derby between Ässät and Lukko, underscoring regional pride in western Finland.

Former teams and timeline

The SM-liiga, now known as Liiga, began with 10 teams in the 1975–76 season, and over the decades, several clubs have departed due to relegations, folds, bankruptcies, or relocations, while others have returned or been added through expansions. Key former teams include founding member Vaasan Sport, which was relegated after the inaugural season in 1976 and did not return until promotion in 2014; KooVee Tampere, relegated in 1980 amid competitive struggles; Kiekkoreipas Lahti (later known as Reipas Lahti), which exited in 1985 and folded by 1994 due to financial difficulties; Joensuun Jokipojat (JoKP), which had stints in 1988–89 to 1991–92 before relegation; TuTo Turku, which was relegated after the 1995–96 season following poor performance and economic issues; KooKoo Kouvola, relegated in 1990 and absent until its 2015 return; Jokerit Helsinki, which left after the 2013–14 season to join the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL); and Blues Espoo (originally Kiekko-Espoo from 1992, rebranded in 1998), which declared bankruptcy in 2016 with liabilities exceeding €3 million, leading to its dissolution. These departures were often driven by financial instability, a common challenge in Finnish hockey during the and , when smaller-market teams struggled with costs amid the league's ; for instance, multiple bankruptcies in the mid-2000s, including related consolidations in regions like , reduced team counts temporarily before expansions restored balance. Mergers and regional consolidations, such as the evolution of Lahti's teams into modern Pelicans, helped stabilize some areas but contributed to the exit of others like Reipas. The absence of from 2000 to 2013 created a closed league structure, limiting new entries until challenges were reintroduced, though no full relegations occurred until recent ties; this system aimed to protect investments but occasionally prolonged instability for struggling clubs.
Season RangeKey ChangesImpact on League Size
1975–76 to 1977–78Initial 10 teams; Sport Vaasa relegated after 1975–76.Maintained at 10 teams, establishing early parity among core clubs.
1979–80KooVee relegated.Remained 10 teams; focused competition on established powerhouses like and HIFK.
1984–85Kiekkoreipas out.Still 10 teams; minor adjustments without expansion.
1988–89Expansion to 12 teams with the addition of JoKP and .Increased depth, boosting attendance and rivalries in larger markets.
1988–89 to 1991–92JoKP participates following expansion.12-team stability; highlighted promotion experiments in the late 1980s.
1990 relegated.Held at 12 teams; early 1990s saw rising financial pressures leading to folds.
1993–94 out.Maintained 12 teams; paved way for Pelicans' emergence through merger.
1995–96TuTo relegated.Maintained at 12 teams.
2000–01Expansion to 13 teams.Post-relegation recovery; added stability without relegation risk until 2008.
2005–06Further expansion to 14 teams.Enhanced national coverage, countering earlier 10-team eras' limited parity.
2013–14 departs for KHL.Remained 14 teams; opened slot filled by promotion challenges.
2015–16Blues bankrupt; Jukurit promoted, expanding to 15.Addressed fold's gap; bankruptcy underscored need for financial oversight.
2024–25 promoted, expanding to 16 teams.Revived hockey post-2016 bankruptcy; reintroduced relegation ties with for sustainability.
These changes have shaped Liiga's growth from a 10-team circuit in the 1970s, prone to early relegations that tested smaller clubs, to a robust 16-team league in 2025, where expansions and selective promotions have improved competitive balance and geographic spread without frequent disruptions. Folds like ' temporarily strained resources but prompted reforms, such as the 2013 return of playout series against champions, fostering long-term viability.

Season Format

Regular season

The regular season of Liiga consists of 60 games per team, structured as a quadruple round-robin format where each of the 16 teams plays four games against every other opponent—typically two at home and two away—for a balanced . This results in a total of 480 games across the league. The season runs from mid-September to mid-March, allowing for a competitive pace while accommodating national team commitments and holidays. Standings are determined by a points system that incentivizes decisive victories: teams earn 3 points for a win in time, 2 points for a win in or , 1 point for a loss in or , and 0 points for a loss. In case of ties in points, teams are ranked first by number of -time wins, then by across all games, followed by total goals scored. Head-to-head results may apply in specific multi-team ties. Key rules governing regular season play include overtime procedures and player eligibility restrictions. If a game is tied after three 20-minute periods, teams proceed to a 5-minute 3-on-3 sudden-death period; if no is scored, the outcome is decided by a three-shooter , with additional sudden-death rounds if necessary, the winner earning 2 points and the loser 1 point. Video review protocols, aligned with IIHF standards, are used for validation, offside challenges, and incidents. Scheduling incorporates several pauses to balance competition and player welfare, including a one-week break typically from December 24 to December 31 and international breaks for events like the Karjala Tournament in late October or early November, during which selected players join the national team. Since the league's expansion to 15 teams in and further to 16 in , the schedule has maintained a fully balanced home-and-away distribution to ensure fairness.

Playoffs and promotion/relegation

The playoffs in Liiga determine the league champion through an elimination involving the top 12 teams from the regular season standings. The four highest-ranked teams advance directly to the quarterfinals, while teams seeded 5th through 12th participate in a wild card round of best-of-five series, with matchups pitting the 5th seed against the 12th, 6th against 11th, 7th against 10th, and 8th against 9th. The winners of these wild card series join the top four seeds in the quarterfinals. Subsequent rounds—the quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals—are contested in best-of-seven formats, requiring four wins to advance. In these series, the higher-seeded team receives home-ice advantage, hosting the first two games, with the format alternating thereafter (2-2-1-1-1). A single-game match is held between the semifinal losers to determine third place. The typically begin in mid-March following the regular season's conclusion. The winner of the finals series is awarded the Kanada-malja trophy as the Finnish champion. This postseason structure emphasizes intense, multi-game series to crown a deserving titleholder without a third-place consolation beyond the bronze game. between Liiga and the second-tier league were reinstated for the 2024–25 season after a decade-long hiatus. The two lowest-ranked Liiga teams (15th and 16th) compete in a best-of-seven series immediately after the regular season. The loser of this playout then faces the champion in another best-of-seven qualification series; the winner secures a spot in the following Liiga season, while the defeated team is relegated to . For the 2024–25 expansion to 16 teams, was directly admitted without a series, but the system ensures ongoing competitive balance thereafter. Historically, Liiga's playoff format has expanded for greater inclusivity. Before the , only the top eight teams qualified, limiting postseason opportunities. The field grew to ten teams around to boost engagement across more clubs. The 2024–25 season marked further changes, increasing qualifiers to 12 teams and reintroducing promotion/relegation play-offs—suspended since 2013—to foster merit-based league composition.

Champions

List of champions

The Liiga, Finland's premier league, was established in 1975 to succeed the amateur SM-sarja, which had determined since 1928. The inaugural Liiga season (1975–76) marked the transition to a fully format, with crowning the via a best-of-three final series. Over time, playoff structures evolved, with early finals typically best-of-five from the late onward, shifting to best-of-seven by the to align with international standards and increase competitiveness. Excluding the 2019–20 season, which was cancelled due to the with no declared, the league has held 49 finals through 2024–25. Notable dynasties include Tappara's four consecutive regular-season titles from 1985–88, followed by three playoff wins in that span, and TPS's from 1989–91, where they defeated strong challengers like Ilves and KalPa in decisive series. The 2024–25 final saw KalPa claim their first-ever championship, defeating 4–2 in a best-of-seven series, ending Tappara's recent dominance after three straight titles from 2022–24. As of 2025, holds a league-leading 13 Liiga championships, underscoring their historical success since the league's founding. The following table lists all Liiga champions chronologically, including runners-up. Series scores are noted only for select notable finals where they highlight upsets or sweeps; full historical data varies by era due to format changes.
SeasonChampionRunner-upSeries Score (if notable)
1975–76TPS (Turku)Tappara (Tampere)2–0 (best-of-3)
1976–77Tappara (Tampere)TPS (Turku)-
1977–78Ässät (Pori)Tappara (Tampere)-
1978–79Tappara (Tampere)Ässät (Pori)-
1979–80HIFK (Helsinki)Ässät (Pori)-
1980–81Kärpät (Oulu)Tappara (Tampere)-
1981–82Tappara (Tampere)TPS (Turku)-
1982–83HIFK (Helsinki)Jokerit (Helsinki)-
1983–84Tappara (Tampere)Ässät (Pori)-
1984–85Ilves (Tampere)Kärpät (Oulu)3–1 (best-of-5)
1985–86Tappara (Tampere)HIFK (Helsinki)-
1986–87Tappara (Tampere)Kärpät (Oulu)-
1987–88Tappara (Tampere)Lukko (Rauma)-
1988–89TPS (Turku)JYP (Jyväskylä)-
1989–90TPS (Turku)Ilves (Tampere)-
1990–91TPS (Turku)KalPa (Kuopio)4–1 (best-of-7)
1991–92Jokerit (Helsinki)JYP (Jyväskylä)-
1992–93TPS (Turku)HPK (Hämeenlinna)-
1993–94Jokerit (Helsinki)TPS (Turku)-
1994–95TPS (Turku)Jokerit (Helsinki)-
1995–96Jokerit (Helsinki)TPS (Turku)-
1996–97Jokerit (Helsinki)TPS (Turku)3–0 (best-of-5)
1997–98HIFK (Helsinki)Ilves (Tampere)-
1998–99TPS (Turku)HIFK (Helsinki)-
1999–00TPS (Turku)Jokerit (Helsinki)-
2000–01TPS (Turku)Tappara (Tampere)-
2001–02Jokerit (Helsinki)Tappara (Tampere)-
2002–03Tappara (Tampere)Kärpät (Oulu)-
2003–04Kärpät (Oulu)TPS (Turku)-
2004–05Kärpät (Oulu)Jokerit (Helsinki)-
2005–06HPK (Hämeenlinna)Ässät (Pori)-
2006–07Kärpät (Oulu)Jokerit (Helsinki)-
2007–08Kärpät (Oulu)Blues (Espoo)-
2008–09JYP (Jyväskylä)Kärpät (Oulu)-
2009–10TPS (Turku)HPK (Hämeenlinna)-
2010–11HIFK (Helsinki)Blues (Espoo)-
2011–12JYP (Jyväskylä)Pelicans (Lahti)-
2012–13Ässät (Pori)Tappara (Tampere)-
2013–14Kärpät (Oulu)Tappara (Tampere)-
2014–15Kärpät (Oulu)Tappara (Tampere)-
2015–16Tappara (Tampere)HIFK (Helsinki)-
2016–17Tappara (Tampere)KalPa (Kuopio)-
2017–18Kärpät (Oulu)Tappara (Tampere)-
2018–19HPK (Hämeenlinna)Kärpät (Oulu)-
2019–20None (cancelled)--
2020–21Lukko (Rauma)TPS (Turku)-
2021–22Tappara (Tampere)TPS (Turku)-
2022–23Tappara (Tampere)Pelicans (Lahti)-
2023–24Tappara (Tampere)Pelicans (Lahti)-
2024–25KalPa (Kuopio)SaiPa (Lappeenranta)4–2 (best-of-7)
In total, 49 finals have been played across Liiga's history (1975–76 to 2024–25, excluding 2019–20), with an average series length of approximately 4.8 games based on best-of-five and best-of-seven formats—shorter in early years due to condensed series and longer in modern eras to allow for more competitive matchups.

Most successful clubs

holds the record for the most Finnish ice hockey championships with 20 titles, surpassing all other clubs in the nation's history and drawing comparisons to the ' dominance in the NHL with their 24 Stanley Cups. follows with 16 championships, while TPS has secured 11 and HIFK 7, establishing these teams as the most successful in the Liiga era and beyond. Historical dynasties highlight the sustained success of top clubs, with capturing 7 titles across the 1970s and 1980s, including a remarkable streak of four consecutive championships from 1985 to 1988 that solidified their legacy during the league's early professional years. Prior to professionalization, Ilves dominated with 16 early titles from to , setting a benchmark for hockey that later built upon in the modern era. These periods of dominance often coincided with strategic roster building and tactical innovations that influenced subsequent Liiga competition. Key factors behind the success of leading clubs include robust youth development systems, financial backing, and influential coaching. TPS, for instance, has excelled through its renowned player pipeline, producing numerous NHL talents such as the Koivu brothers and , which bolsters on-ice performance and attracts investment. Tappara's financial stability, supported by strong local ownership and arena revenue from Nokia Arena, has enabled consistent competitiveness. Coaching legacies, like that of Curt Lindström—who guided Ilves to improved standings in 2004–05 and contributed to Finland's 1995 gold—have emphasized disciplined systems that permeate Liiga teams. In recent years, the Liiga has seen increased parity, particularly post-2010, with eight different clubs claiming titles since 2015, including surprise winners like in 2019 and KalPa in 2025, reflecting enhanced league-wide talent distribution and competitive balance.
ClubTotal ChampionshipsNotable Era of Dominance
201970s–1980s (7 titles)
Ilves161930s–1960s (16 titles)
TPS111990s–2000s (5 titles)
HIFK71980s (2 titles)

Records and Statistics

All-time scoring leaders

In Liiga, points are awarded for goals and assists earned during the regular season only, excluding playoff performances, with a player's total points calculated as the sum of these statistics across their career in the league. This methodology has been standard since the league's inception in 1975 as SM-liiga. Scoring levels in Liiga have evolved significantly over the decades, transitioning from relatively low-output eras in the 1970s—where games typically featured around 5 goals total—to higher-scoring environments in the 2000s and beyond, influenced by improvements in equipment, training, and subtle rule adjustments promoting offensive play. For instance, the 2023–2024 regular season saw an average of 5.45 goals per game across 450 contests, reflecting a gradual uptick in offensive production. The all-time scoring leaders are predominantly Finnish players who enjoyed long careers with multiple clubs, often anchoring offensive lines for teams like Ilves, Ässät, and Tappara. Below is a table of the top 10 regular-season point producers as of the 2024–2025 season:
RankPlayerPositionGPGAPtsCareer SpanPrimary Teams
1Janne OjanenC8762835167991985–2010Tappara
2Arto JavanainenRW6684623307921975–1994Ässät
3Kristian KuuselaRW/LW11072804587382002–2023Oulun Kärpät
4Ville VähälähtiLW9772604276871998–2018KalPa, SaiPa
5Jari LindroosC6492304326621981–1997Tappara, HIFK
6Esa KeskinenC4782154436581983–2000TPS
7Matti HagmanC4322174326491975–1992IFK Helsinki, Ässät
8Risto JaloC5942374096461979–1998Ilves, HPK
9Juha-Pekka HaatajaRW8812563265822001–2020Kärpät, HIFK
10Raimo HelminenC7511614205811982–2008Ässät, HIFK
These figures are updated through the 2024–2025 season. Notable single-season performances highlight the league's offensive peaks, particularly in the when shorter schedules (around 44 games) still allowed for prolific output; the record stands at 93 points by (29 goals, 64 assists) with Kärpät in 1986–1987. Other standout campaigns include Matti Hagman's 87 points (37 goals, 50 assists) in just 35 games for IFK Helsinki in 1979–1980, and imports achieving 100+ point equivalents in adjusted terms during that era, such as Czech forward Jan Caloun's 81 points (24 goals, 57 assists) over 51 games with KalPa in 1998–1999.

Goaltending and durability records

In Liiga, goaltending records emphasize longevity and performance metrics that highlight defensive reliability over decades of play. The league's top goaltenders by regular-season games played demonstrate exceptional durability, with Eero Kilpeläinen leading at 519 games across multiple teams from the mid-2000s until his retirement. Close behind are Pasi Kuivalainen with 517 games primarily in the 1990s and 2000s, and Jukka Tammi with 510 games spanning the 1980s and 1990s. These figures reflect careers often tied to powerhouse clubs like HIFK and TPS, where consistent starting roles built foundational defensive success.
RankGoaltenderGames PlayedPrimary Teams/Career Span
1Eero Kilpeläinen519TOT (2000s–2020s)
2Pasi Kuivalainen517TOT (1990s–2000s)
3Jukka Tammi510TOT (1980s–1990s)
4Sakari Lindfors472HIFK (1980s–1990s)
5Jussi Markkanen471TOT (1990s–2000s)
Key performance records further underscore elite goaltending contributions. Sakari Lindfors holds the most regular-season wins with 236, achieved largely with HIFK during the and , while Jukka Tammi follows with 227 wins across various teams. For shutouts, Eero Kilpeläinen leads with 57 in 519 games, exemplifying modern control in net, ahead of Teemu Lassila's 42 over 388 appearances. Save percentage tracking, introduced more systematically in the , favors high-volume performers like at .928 over 287 games with teams including Kärpät and . Durability in Liiga goaltending is marked by extended careers amid the physical demands of a high-contact professional league, where injuries from collisions and shots have historically shortened tenures. Goaltenders like Hannu Kamppuri, with 463 games and 200 wins from the 1970s to 1980s, exemplified ironman resilience, often starting 40+ games per season without modern rotation practices. Consecutive starts remain a benchmark of endurance, though specific league records are less documented than in the NHL; players like Jussi Markkanen sustained streaks of 20+ games in seasons with and JYP during the 2000s, balancing workload with emerging injury protocols. The high-contact era, intensified by faster play since the , has increased lower-body injuries, prompting teams to limit starters to 50-60 games annually to preserve health. Goaltending techniques in Liiga evolved from the stand-up style dominant in the —characterized by upright positioning and poke checks, as seen in veterans like —to the butterfly method by the , where goaltenders drop to their knees to seal the lower net against low shots. This shift, influenced by global trends like Patrick Roy's NHL success in the , was accelerated in by enhanced youth training emphasizing agility and recovery. advancements, including larger leg pads (up to 45 inches by the early before regulations) and improved blockers, supported the transition, reducing vulnerability to screened shots while adapting to Liiga's tactical emphasis on cycling and rebounds.

Import player achievements

Import players, defined as non-Finnish nationals, have played a pivotal role in elevating the competitive level of Liiga since its inception in 1975, bringing diverse playing styles and international experience to the league. Initially, league rules restricted teams to a maximum of two import players during the 1980s, a limit that gradually increased to four by the early 2000s before being eliminated entirely ahead of the 2013–2014 season, allowing unrestricted foreign participation. This liberalization has resulted in foreign players comprising approximately 25% of active Liiga rosters by the 2024-25 season, fostering a more global talent pool and enhancing overall skill development among Finnish players through exposure to varied tactics from North America, Sweden, Czechia, and beyond. Among import skaters, scoring achievements highlight their offensive impact, with Canadian and Czech players dominating the all-time points leaders due to their longevity and production in the league. The top performers often include NHL veterans or prospects who thrived in Liiga's fast-paced environment, contributing significantly to team successes. Notable examples include Éric Perrin, a Canadian center who amassed 532 points over 643 games primarily with , and Otakar Janecký, a Czech forward with 479 points in 450 games across multiple clubs. The following table lists the top 10 non-Finnish skaters in Liiga all-time regular-season points as of 2025:
RankPlayerNationalityGames PlayedGoalsAssistsPoints
1Éric Perrin643189343532
2Otakar JaneckýCzechia450133346479
3Valeri KrykovRussia687226244470
4Darren Boyko476142265407
5Jan ČalounCzechia350130230360
6Vjačeslavs Fanduls456128231359
7Tomáš Záborský312121231352
8Allan Measures408112226338
9Kent Nilsson10462162224
10Ryan Glenn28945152197
These rankings underscore the influence of imports from and , though Swedish and Russian players have also made notable contributions despite shorter tenures. In the 2024-25 season, imports continued to impact records, with players like Atro Leppänen (Finnish, but context for league scoring) highlighting ongoing offensive trends, though no new all-time marks were set by imports. Imports have further distinguished themselves through championship contributions and individual accolades, with several earning the Kanada-malja as part of winning teams and securing league honors. For instance, Perrin was instrumental in HPK's back-to-back titles in 2001 and 2002, while goaltender Tim Thomas (USA) helped TPS claim the 2000 championship and later won the Urpo Ylén Award for best goaltender in 2003 during his Liiga stint. In recent years, imports like Canadian defenseman Charles-Édouard D'Astous received the Matti Keinonen Award for best defenseman in 2024 with KalPa, demonstrating their eligibility for core individual trophies alongside Finns. Overall, the integration of imports has not only boosted scoring and defensive metrics but also internationalized Liiga, preparing Finnish talent for global competitions like the NHL and IIHF World Championships.

Awards and Trophies

Team championships

The Kanada-malja, translating to "Canada Bowl," serves as the premier team championship trophy in Liiga, awarded annually to the playoff winner since the league's inception in 1975. Donated in 1951 by the in to honor the sport's roots, the silver bowl design symbolizes national prestige and has been the symbol of Finnish supremacy across both the predecessor SM-sarja and modern Liiga eras. Following the decisive final playoff game, the original trophy is presented to the victorious team during an on-ice ceremony, where players hoist it in celebration before it is returned to the in for safekeeping; each winning club receives a permanent replica for display. Complementing the playoff title, the regular-season pennant—formally known as the Harry Lindblad Memorial Trophy—recognizes the team accumulating the most points over the 60-game schedule. Established in honor of Harry Lindblad, a pioneering Finnish official who served on the league board from 1961 to 1976 and earned Jääkiekkoleijona No. 19 status, this award highlights sustained performance amid the grueling regular season. While the regular-season leader often advances deep into , discrepancies have arisen historically, with the pennant winner failing to secure the Kanada-malja in at least 10 instances since 1975, underscoring the unpredictable nature of postseason play. Recent recipients include in 2024–25 and in both 2023–24 and 2022–23. The 2024–25 playoff champion was KalPa. Prior to Liiga's formation in 1975, team championships in the amateur-dominated SM-sarja (1928–1975) similarly revolved around the Kanada-malja for overall winners, with regular-season standings determining early champions until playoff systems evolved in the post-World War II era. The shift to Liiga maintained these core awards but introduced structured criteria like point systems for regular-season rankings. The 2024–25 expansion to a 16-team refined playoff qualification—now the top 10 teams advance with direct seeding for seeds 1–4—without altering the fundamental award structures, ensuring the focus remains on both regular-season dominance and playoff triumph.

Individual honors

The individual honors in Liiga celebrate exceptional contributions by players and coaches, with most awards originating in the shortly after the league's founding in 1975 to professionalize Finnish ice hockey. These accolades are typically determined through voting by league players for peer-recognized impact, or by media representatives evaluating statistical performance and overall influence on team success, ensuring a balance between quantifiable metrics like goals and assists and qualitative factors such as and defensive play. Among the premier player awards is the Kultainen kypärä (Golden Helmet), established in 1987 and presented annually to the league's as selected by votes from fellow Liiga players, highlighting peer respect for comprehensive excellence beyond mere statistics. Criteria focus on a player's ability to elevate their team through skill, consistency, and intangibles like playmaking and clutch performance. Notable recipients include American defenseman , who became the first non-Finnish winner in 1994–95 while with HIFK, and Tim Thomas, honored in 2005 for his standout season with ; multiple winners are rare, but several players like (1995) have earned it once en route to international success, though NHL-contracted players are ineligible during their overseas commitments. The Matti Keinonen Trophy, named after the legendary defenseman and introduced in the late 1970s, recognizes the most effective player based on the plus-minus statistic, voted by league officials and media to reward defensive reliability and on-ice impact. It prioritizes players who contribute positively to scoring chances while minimizing opponents' opportunities, often favoring defensemen. Multiple-time honorees include Hannu Virta with four wins, underscoring sustained excellence in puck possession and zone coverage. Recent winners include Niclas Almari in 2024–25 for . For goaltending prowess, the Urpo Ylönen Trophy, named after the former goaltender Urpo Ylönen and established in 1975, awards the top netminder through media voting that weighs save percentage, goals-against average, and shutouts alongside game-stealing performances. It celebrates durability and reflexes under pressure, with criteria emphasizing statistical dominance and playoff carryover potential. Standout winners include Christian Heljanko in 2023–24 for his league-leading metrics with Jukurit, and international talents like Czech prospect in 2019–20 with Ilves, though eligibility excludes those primarily in North American leagues. Multiple recipients, such as Eero Kilpeläinen with three awards, exemplify long-term reliability. Recent winners include Niklas Rubin in 2024–25 for Ässät. Coaching excellence is acknowledged via the Kalevi Numminen Trophy, named after the Finnish ice hockey executive Kalevi Numminen and first awarded in 1975–76, voted by a panel of league officials and media based on tactical adaptations, player development, and results. It highlights coaches who implement advanced systems like aggressive forechecking or data-driven line matching to outperform expectations. Recent winners include Rikard Grönborg in 2023–24 for guiding to the championship through hybrid offensive schemes, and multiple-time honoree Jussi Ahokas (2019–20) for his disciplined defensive overhauls at TPS. The 2024–25 winner was Raimo Helminen of .

Media and Culture

Video games and merchandise

Liiga teams have been featured in the EA Sports NHL video game series since 2001, when the Nordic expansion edition of NHL 2001 introduced the league alongside the for authentic European gameplay modes. This inclusion allows players to simulate matches with official rosters, arenas, and uniforms from all 16 Liiga clubs, enhancing the game's global appeal and providing Finnish fans with representation in international simulations. The partnership with has continued annually, with Liiga content updated in titles like NHL 26 to reflect current season designs, including accurate jerseys and player likenesses. The league's licensing agreement with enables these features, covering team branding, player rights, and playoff simulation modes that recreate Liiga's postseason intensity. As of , this ongoing collaboration extends to mobile companion apps for stats and highlights, though no dedicated circuit beyond community tournaments exists. Official merchandise for Liiga emphasizes team-specific apparel and collectibles, with jerseys produced by domestic manufacturers like Liiga Sport Wear, which supplies authentic on-ice and fan replicas for several clubs, such as . These jerseys, available through team online stores and specialty shops, feature high-quality fabrics and customizable options, often peaking in demand during the when commemorative editions celebrate championship runs. Collectibles such as signed pucks, trading cards from series like and Upper Deck, and game programs are popular among enthusiasts, with items from historic teams like HIFK and TPS commanding premium prices on secondary markets. Sales of these products surge in spring, driven by playoff excitement and limited-edition releases tied to key milestones, such as anniversary pucks or autographed memorabilia from top scorers.

Broadcasting and fan engagement

Liiga games are primarily broadcast by , which acquired the rights from Telia in 2020 and handles production and distribution across . All matches are available via streaming on platforms like MTV's services, with select games airing on linear TV channels such as MTV3. Internationally, the league has expanded accessibility through services like uPlay+, which delivers live and on-demand Liiga content to global audiences outside as of 2025. Attendance in Liiga has shown steady growth, with the league averaging approximately 4,659 spectators per game during the 2024-25 regular season, marking a slight increase from the prior year's 4,568. This figure positions Liiga among Europe's stronger-drawing hockey leagues, though it varies by venue; for instance, Tappara's Arena, with a capacity exceeding 13,000, routinely hosts the highest crowds in the league. Fan engagement in Liiga emphasizes community involvement and passionate supporter culture, particularly through organized groups like the HIFK , which coordinates events, protests, and matchday activities to amplify team support. Clubs foster deeper connections via , where the official Liiga account reached 139,000 followers by late 2025, sharing highlights, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive polls to build a digital community. Partnerships, such as with Wisehockey through 2027, enhance engagement by integrating data analytics into fan experiences, including coaching insights and marketing initiatives that promote accessibility for younger audiences. The league faces ongoing challenges with , a broader issue in sports broadcasting that undermines revenue from streaming rights, though specific enforcement efforts for Liiga remain integrated into general European anti-piracy measures. To address , Liiga has prioritized English-language options via international streams like uPlay+, aiming to attract overseas viewers and support the export of Finnish talent to leagues such as the NHL.

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  81. https://forums.ea.com/discussions/nhl-26-general-discussion-en/liiga-jerseys-and-masks/12846753
  82. https://www.instagram.com/liigasportwear/?hl=en
  83. https://www.ebay.com/b/SM-liiga-Ice-Hockey-Sports-Trading-Cards-Accessories/212/bn_80231021
  84. https://www.hockeyunlimited.fi/FAN-MERCHANDISE
  85. https://www.telecompaper.com/news/telia-finland-transfers-liiga-ice-hockey-broadcasting-to-mtv--1337988
  86. https://uplay.se/en/sports/stream-the-league-with-uplay/
  87. https://www.facebook.com/HIFKFanClub/about/
  88. https://www.instagram.com/liiga.fi/?hl=en
  89. https://wisesport.com/wisehockey-renews-partnership-with-the-finnish-hockey-league-liiga-through-2027/
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