Jokerit, a renowned ice hockey team based in Helsinki, has officially secured its license to rejoin the SM-liiga for the 2026–2027 season. This decision has been confirmed by the licensing committee of the league, which has reviewed applications from all current teams as well as Jokerit, which performed exceptionally well in the lower division, Mestis, last season. The committee's Chairman, Jaakko Luumi, emphasized that all teams met the licensing criteria, thus ensuring no obstacles for Jokerit’s participation in the upcoming season.

The welcoming of Jokerit back into Finland's top professional ice hockey league has been met with enthusiasm from the league's CEO, Mikko Pulkkinen. He highlighted the importance of integrating Jokerit into the league's ecosystem following the completion of the licensing process. This move also reignites a longstanding rivalry in Finnish ice hockey, making the league more competitive and exciting for fans.

Jokerit last competed in the SM-liiga during the 2013-2014 season before moving to the KHL, where they played until 2022. Their return represents not only a significant comeback for the team but also a cultural moment for Finnish ice hockey, revitalizing interest in domestic competitions as well as bolstering the league's overall standing in Europe.