Finland’s largest shooting sports centre suspends operations amid licensing dispute

Operations at Ruutikangas, Finland’s largest shooting sports centre, have been unexpectedly halted due to unresolved licensing and operator agreements, though competitions will continue under special police permits, reports Finnish broadcaster Yle.

The facility, located on the border of Liminka and Lumijoki, remains partially open despite the dispute. Shooting activities were suspended in March after the Oulu Region Shooting Sports Centre Association, which managed the site, and Ruutikunnat, the centre’s owner, failed to reach a new agreement.

Despite the setback, events such as a pistol competition this Sunday and a black powder shooting event in May will proceed with police authorisation. Jarkko Koskela, CEO of Ruutikunnat, expects a new general permit for the ranges within weeks, eliminating the need for temporary approvals.

The company is also searching for a new operator to manage the 90-hectare centre, co-owned by the cities of Oulu and Raahe and the municipalities of Liminka and Lumijoki. Construction began in 2019, but parts remain unfinished, leading to the loss of the 2027 European Championships in rifle, pistol, moving target, and shotgun events.

The European Shooting Confederation withdrew the conditional hosting rights in August 2025, citing delays. Future competitions are seen as vital for the centre’s financial stability.