Finland: FC Haka Stadium Hit By Arson Attack, Stand Reduced to Ashes — WATCH Video

A teenager has confessed to starting the devastating fire that destroyed a stand at FC Haka’s historic Tehtaan kenttä stadium, police confirmed on Wednesday. The blaze erupted just weeks after the storied Finnish club, nine-time league champions and 12-time cup winners, was relegated from the Veikkausliiga to the second division.

Teen Confesses, but Cannot Be Criminally Charged

According to Finland’s Sisä-Suomi police, three minors under the age of 15 were present when the fire broke out on Sunday evening in Valkeakoski, roughly 150 kilometres north of Helsinki. One of the three admitted to igniting an object that triggered the blaze, which rapidly engulfed the wooden end stand, destroying it entirely and damaging parts of the artificial turf.

Detective Inspector Maijastiina Tammisto stated that although the case is being investigated as arson, Finnish law prevents the under-15 suspect from facing criminal prosecution. However, she emphasized that liability for damages still applies, with no minimum age for compensation responsibility.

Tammisto also urged the public to avoid harsh or personal commentary online, warning that inappropriate communications could themselves prompt criminal investigations.

The fire, which started around 8 PM on Sunday, tore through the 400-seat stand at the 3,200-capacity stadium, which dates back to 1934. The venue, known locally as “Tehtaan kenttä” or “Factory Field,” has been FC Haka’s home for nearly a century.

FC Haka chairman Marko Laaksonen said the damage costs have not yet been assessed but will be significant. “We certainly didn’t need this, that’s clear,” he told Finnish media, adding that the club has already received strong support from the community.

Valkeakoski city officials, who own the stadium, pledged to begin repair assessments immediately. “Tehtaas is a beloved place for the people of Koski, and the city is committed to maintaining Tehtaas Field,” said City Council chairman Joni Kumlander.

Work is now underway to determine what is needed to restore the pitch and rebuild the destroyed stand.