Antti Pennanen, the head coach of the Finnish men's ice hockey team, was left empty-handed after the Olympic Games in Milan, a departure from typical tournament norms where coaching staffs often receive accolades. In the medal ceremony, the medals were awarded exclusively to the athletes, with the head coach and support staff not receiving physical recognition for their contributions during the tournament. This practice aligns with similar protocols in various Olympic sports, emphasizing the focus on the athletes as the primary recipients of fame and accolades.

In the Olympic tournament, Finland's hockey team, known affectionately as 'Leijonat' (The Lions), secured a bronze medal, marking the eighth Olympic men's hockey medal for Finland in its history. This particular bronze signifies Finland's fifth medal since the Olympic tournament's inception, showcasing the nation's continued prowess in the sport. Notably, Emma Terho, a former Olympian who had made history as the youngest Finnish athlete to win an Olympic medal at just 16 years old, presented the medals, adding a layer of historical significance to the event.

Finland's success over the years, especially between 1998 to 2014 and the anticipated 2026 Games, has been attributed largely to the presence of NHL superstars on their roster, contributing to the team's competitive edge on the international stage. The absence of individual recognition for coaches like Pennanen may stir discussions about the role of coaching in achieving such athletic successes, potentially pushing for shifts in how achievements are celebrated in Olympic team sports.