The main series of the Wife Carrying World Championships, held in Sonkajärvi on July 4–5, 2025,
is already fully booked. A total of 75 couples from 17 different countries will participate. The team
competition has also sparked great interest, with nine teams from three countries registered so far.
Among the participants is Severi Allonen, who was named Finland’s Strongest Man in 2024. His
team includes Jani Kumpulehto, Samuli Lappeteläinen, and Venla Luukkonen. Allonen will also
compete in the sprint and the main race.
“This competition has always intrigued me a bit, and I see it as a great opportunity to create
interesting content for social media. I also believe my strengths are well-suited for this sport, so I
had to give it a try,” says Severi Allonen.
For the first time, a separate women’s series will be held, and three couples have registered so far.
Wife Carrying Can Also Be Watched via Livestream
Thousands of spectators are expected to attend the Wife Carrying World Championships once
again. For those who can’t make it to the event, there’s an opportunity to follow the excitement
online. Iisalmen Sanomat will livestream the competition, and viewing access can be purchased for
five euros on the official Wife Carrying website.
“The decision made last year to increase the number of competitors has clearly been the right one.
It’s great to see such strong interest. Preparations are going according to plan, and we’re eagerly
looking forward to early July. This year, Kaj Kunnas will also be hosting the event and will provide
commentary partly in English to accommodate international viewers,” says Joni Juntunen,
Chairman of the Board of Eukonkanto Oy.
Juntunen himself will compete in the team series, carrying Jaana Haavikko. His team also includes
John Lund and Elliot Storey, just like last year. This will be his 28th competition.
“Last year’s race was supposed to be my last, especially since it ended with an injury. But over the
winter, John convinced me to give it one more go and try to finish in one piece. And of course, the
thought of a 20th championship has been on my mind,” says Joni Juntunen.
More Information: Joni Juntunen, Chairman
Eukonkanto Oy
Phone: +358 40 5633767
