Pia Pekonen, who is the assistant coach for Finland's women's skiing national team, has come under fire after she was seen attending a crowded ice hockey semi-final in Milan without wearing a mask. The sight of Pekonen smiling in the stands raised eyebrows, especially since athletes are advised to avoid contact and wear masks during competitions to minimize the risk of illness. This incident has sparked discussions about the team's collective approach to health and safety, with experts questioning why there is not a unified strategy in place.

The context of her attendance at the hockey match is compounded by the recent health concerns within the ski team, as four athletes—Vilma Nissinen, Vilma Ryytty, Iivo Niskanen, and Ristomatti Hakola—have fallen ill in the past week. Pekonen's actions have raised questions about individual versus collective responsibility in the context of team protocols for minimizing illness risks. Some experts have expressed concern that there should be a coherent guideline for all team members to adhere to, especially during a pandemic where every precaution can significantly affect the athletes' health and performance.

In her defense, Pekonen stated that she had consulted both a doctor and her coaching staff prior to attending the match, indicating that she believed she had taken appropriate precautions. Despite this, her decision to appear in a crowded venue without a mask has raised important questions about the responsibilities of team leadership and the potential impacts on team morale and public health perceptions. The situation calls for a reevaluation of health safety protocols within sports teams in light of ongoing health risks.