Finnish Mestis clubs energized by new promotion path to B-league

The new Finnish Mestis season begins with high stakes as the top seven teams will earn spots in the new B-league for 2027/28, offering a promotion path previously unavailable. The reform has generated significant enthusiasm among second-tier clubs. The four best teams in the regular season are guaranteed B-league places, while teams ranked 5-8 will compete in playoffs for the remaining three spots. Clubs must also meet league licensing requirements, which have not yet been announced. RoKi's CEO Mika Toivola called this the most interesting season in memory, while veteran coach Risto Dufva said the opportunity has restored motivation. The Mestis season starts Friday, September 11, with nine clubs participating. Dufva, who coached five league teams over 17 seasons, noted that the closed league era made promotion seem unattainable, but the new model provides a realistic goal. RoKi aims to build a credible organization for the B-league within 2-4 years.