Anssi Laine, who has been instrumental in leading the Finnish ice hockey team KalPa to the SM-liiga championship, is set to take on a significant role within the French Ice Hockey Federation as the head of ice hockey operations starting next season. This appointment is noteworthy as it marks the establishment of a position that has never existed before within the French organization. Laine's primary responsibilities will include overseeing both the men's national team and the youth national teams, positioning him to influence the development of French ice hockey ahead of the upcoming World Championships in 2028 and the Winter Olympics in 2030.

Laine's move comes after he has achieved remarkable success with KalPa, having served as their sports director since 2020. Under his leadership, KalPa secured their championship title last spring, making this a critical transition not just for him but also for the team, as they prepare to fill his shoes with Sami Kaartinen, who has been working as a physical and skating coach with the team since the 2019-2020 season.

The significance of Laine's new role cannot be understated. His appointment is pivotal for the French Ice Hockey Federation as they look to elevate their status in international ice hockey. With aspirations geared towards future competitions, the Federation's investment in Laine highlights a commitment to strengthening their teams and developing talent that can compete on the world stage. As such, this represents a transformative period for both Laine and French ice hockey, with potential long-term implications for the sport in France and its competitiveness on an international level.