CSM Advises FIHA on Long-Term Extension with Warner Bros. Discovery

Period: 2018-2032 | Client: Finnish Ice Hockey Association

CSM has been the exclusive media rights advisor to the Finnish Ice Hockey Association (FIHA) since 2018, supporting the federation in securing long-term partnerships that maximize exposure and commercial value for Finnish ice hockey.

In 2019, CSM advised FIHA during the media rights tender for the 2020/21–2025/26 seasons, leading to a groundbreaking agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD). The deal, covering up to 200 matches per year, ensured national team hockey remained widely accessible to Finnish fans.

Following this successful partnership, FIHA extended its agreement with WBD in 2025, securing exclusive media rights from 2026 to 2032. Under this new deal, TV5 and the streaming service Max will continue to be the home of Finnish national team hockey, covering:

✅ Women’s, U20 Men’s, U18 Girls’ & U18 Boys’ World Championships
✅ Euro Hockey Tour tournaments & additional international fixtures

“We are proud to have supported FIHA in securing this extended agreement with WBD, ensuring long-term stability for Finnish ice hockey. The deal highlights the strength of Finnish hockey as a media property and reflects the importance of maintaining a strong broadcasting partner to develop the sport further,” says Anders Wistrand, Founding Partner of CSM.

In addition to its work in media rights negotiations, CSM has played a key role in the launch of leijonat.tv, a joint venture between FIHA and AI-production company Sportway. The platform has expanded the accessibility of Finnish ice hockey, providing enhanced coverage and new opportunities for fan engagement.

Long-Term Partnership with Veikkaus Also Extended

Alongside the WBD agreement in 2025, FIHA also renewed its long-standing partnership with Veikkaus, Finland’s national gaming company. The new deal extends until 2030 and covers key national teams, including the men’s and women’s senior teams, the U20 national team, and the Auroraliigan.

CSM continues to serve as FIHA’s trusted advisor, helping maximize the commercial potential of Finnish ice hockey through strategic partnerships, long-term media rights planning, and digital innovation.