An estimated 90,000 fans gathered at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium on Monday to celebrate Team Finland's IIHF World Championship gold medal victory, according to Sports.
The national hockey team returned from Switzerland on a chartered flight escorted by Finnish fighter jets before meeting with President Alexander Stubb and heading to the public rally.
>>> Bagnaia Eyes Mugello Podium as Turning Point in MotoGP Season
Star Players Lead the Celebration
Florida Panthers stars Sasha Barkov and Anton Lundell headlined the roster.
Barkov served as team captain after recovering from a reconstructed right knee injury that sidelined him for his entire NHL season.
Lundell, who previously won an Olympic bronze medal with Finland, provided the crucial assist on the overtime game-winning goal scored by Konsta Helenius during Sunday's final match.
Finnish coach Antti Pennanen praised the leadership and impact of the team captain during the tournament after his successful return to international play.
"Sasha has been absolutely amazing," Pennanen said. "Now I understand why it's good to be on his teams and why his team is successful.
>>> Nagelsmann to Rely on Bayern Munich Core for Germany's World Cup Campaign
It's incredible great."
Pennanen highlighted how Barkov's arrival elevated the performance of the rest of the squad. Barkov finished as the top scorer for Finland with three goals and 11 points.
"Sasha's arrival also brought confidence to the whole team," Pennanen added. "That's one of the most significant things.
His is a good team to be on. He's not mean, he's not difficult.
He doesn't blame or put other people in a difficult situation, not after mistakes or anything. He treats everyone well."
>>> Montembeault Reflects on Tough Season, Mental Struggles, and Future with Canadiens
The celebration marks another major trophy presentation for Barkov and Lundell, who both secured Stanley Cup championships with the Florida Panthers over the consecutive preceding summers.
