Helsinki fortifies Havis Amanda statue ahead of potential ice hockey celebrations

Helsinki has installed a reinforced wooden barrier around the Havis Amanda statue in Market Square to prevent climbing by fans if Finland wins the ice hockey world championship tonight, according to a report by Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

The city’s measures follow previous incidents in which celebrants scaled the statue, known colloquially as Manta, after major victories. In May 2022, fans climbed onto the fountain and statue when Finland won the world championship, overwhelming the protective fencing then in place. Similar scenes occurred in February 2022 after Finland’s Olympic gold in Beijing.

Helsinki police have also prepared for potential disruptions, with Commissioner Johanna Sinivuori calling the climbing “foolish” and urging fans to avoid it. Authorities warn that celebrations could disrupt traffic in the city center if Finland defeats Switzerland in tonight’s final in Zurich.

Tampere police are likewise bracing for possible fan gatherings.