Finland had a promising start in the men's cross-country ski relay at the Milan-Cortina Olympics, with several skiers, including Lauri Vuorinen, Iivo Niskanen, and Arsi Ruuskanen, giving strong performances to keep the team in contention for medals. After Ruuskanen's impressive run, Finland held a 20-second lead over the trailing competitors, setting hopes high for their final skier, Niko Anttola, who was expected to secure the country’s chance at a podium finish.

However, the final leg saw Anttola face fierce competition from Italy's Federico Pellegrino, a seasoned sprint legend. The race turned into a dramatic ending as Pellegrino overtook Anttola, crossing the finish line 10 seconds ahead. This result not only cost Finland the bronze medal but also highlighted the disappointment surrounding Anttola's selection for the anchor leg, especially considering his previous performance led the country to a gold medal in 2023.

The article underscores the high expectations placed on athletes in such significant events and the impact of team dynamics and individual performance on overall results. This relay was not just about the race; it symbolized the pressure Finnish athletes face, particularly in high-stakes competitions, and serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of Olympic events wherein even a strong start can end in a dramatic loss.