Coaching controversy rocks Team Finland amid Olympic tournament

Fresh off a hard-fought victory against Sweden in Milan, Finnish men’s hockey is facing whispers of unrest behind the bench. Helsingin Sanomat reports that several Finnish players reportedly lost confidence in head coach Antti Pennanen following the NHL 4 Nations tournament lastyear and expressed interest in having Florida Panthers bench boss Paul Maurice take over during the 2026 Olympics.

Maurice reportedly did not reject the idea, but the Finnish Ice Hockey Association and general management did not acknowledge any formal approach. When asked, GM Jere Lehtinen admitted there was some truth to reports of player interest in Maurice, but declined to provide further details.

Olympic hockey coaches are not restricted by nationality. Maurice coaches Finnish national players Eetu Luostarinen, Anton Lundell, Niko Mikkola, as well as the injured Aleksander Barkov with the Panthers.

The news surfaces at a moment of optimism for Finland, who secured a strong showing over Sweden on Friday. The timing may be fuelling speculation, as players feeling confident after a win could be more willing to voice preferences about team leadership.

It remains unclear whether any coaching changes are on the horizon in years to come, or if this report is simply a reflection of internal tensions.

For now, Pennanen remains in charge as Finland prepares for their next match in the Olympic tournament against Italy.