The coach of the medal team direct criticizes the Ski Association: "Shitty setbacks"
The coach of the Finnish combined national team has openly criticized the Ski Association for significant financial troubles affecting the team’s operations and future training.
Antti Kuisma, the head coach of the Finnish combined national team, has expressed dissatisfaction with the Ski Association’s handling of ongoing financial difficulties that have severely impacted the team’s functioning. He points out that the financial struggles have left team members in limbo regarding their training and employment status, specifically mentioning the uncertainty surrounding activities in the upcoming training season.
The Ski Association has reportedly faced hundreds of thousands of euros in losses, with extraordinary expenses linked to the World Championships exacerbating the situation in the years leading up to the 2026 Olympic season. Kuisma reveals that recent seasons have been marked by typical concerns faced by the team, including layoffs and a lack of operational continuity, leading to a precarious environment for athletes and staff alike.
Kuisma's outspokenness highlights a broader issue within Finnish sports regarding the sustainability of funding and support for national teams. The lack of press coverage on these internal setbacks has led to a disparity between public perception and the stark realities faced by the athletes and coaches, raising questions about the management’s ability to navigate these challenges effectively as the 2026 Winter Olympics approach.