Former ski jumping coach’s assets seized over embezzlement allegations worth tens of thousands

A Finnish district court has ordered the seizure of assets belonging to former ski jumping coach Tommi Nikunen as part of an investigation into two cases of suspected aggravated embezzlement, public broadcaster Yle reports.

The Päijät-Häme District Court ruled on Friday to freeze Nikunen’s property up to an estimated value of €65,700. The measure is linked to allegations involving a company operating Lahti Golf Course and its affiliated association, Lahti Golf ry.

Detective Inspector Teppo Kallio of Häme Police confirmed the seizure relates to two serious embezzlement cases. He described the asset freeze as a routine procedure while investigations continue, including detailed questioning and a review of financial records.

“Disputes may arise between parties over which funds were used for community benefit and which for private purposes,” Kallio said. “We must examine each transaction line by line.”

Nikunen, known for his career as a ski jumping coach, worked for Lahti Golf from 2010 until 2025. This season, he also served as an expert commentator for Yle Sport.

In December, Lahti Golf Oy disclosed to the Golfpiste website that authorities were investigating financial irregularities involving tens of thousands of euros. Audits of records from 2021–2025 reportedly uncovered receipts that did not belong in the company’s accounts.