In an unexpected turn of events during Yle's live coverage of the Olympic ice hockey tournament, veteran sports journalist Jussi Saarinen became the studio host for a Canada vs. France preliminary match. Known primarily for his appearances rinkside, Saarinen's transition to the studio environment was a notable shift for fans who are accustomed to seeing him report from the sidelines. This marked what is believed to be one of the few instances where Saarinen has taken on the role of a studio presenter, showcasing his versatility in the broadcasting space.

The event was aired on Yle Areena and TV2, beginning at 5:30 PM, right before the match started at 5:40 PM. This broadcast structure emphasized the importance of pre-game analysis and discussion, which is crucial for engaging viewers in the lead-up to significant sporting events, effectively building anticipation around the match. The surprise appearance of Saarinen added an extra layer of excitement for the audience, combining familiar faces with thrilling sports content.

This shift reflects evolving practices in sports broadcasting, where veteran journalists increasingly take on diverse roles to enhance viewer experience. For Yle, featuring well-respected figures like Saarinen in new capacities not only demonstrates their confidence in his abilities but also aims to draw larger audiences by utilizing established personalities to create a sense of familiarity and trust among viewers. This strategic choice may influence how sports broadcasting develops in Finland as more seasoned journalists adapt to multi-faceted roles.