VESALA TRIUMPHS IN FINLAND AFTER A THRILLING HEAD-TO-HEAD FINISH
- expertcigar
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
There are victories—and then there are battles won by the breath of a second. That was the story in Helsinki, as Finland’s CSWC 2025 qualifier unfolded in front of an electric crowd at the legendary Kirja Cigar Club.
Organized by Petteri Patias, CSWC Global Ambassador and long-time member of Club Mareva, the event once again confirmed his reputation for flawless execution. The competition ran with Finnish precision, but the outcome was anything but predictable.
The slow-smoking showdown saw three exceptional competitors rise above a strong field—but none more so than Matti Vesala, who edged out a heart-pounding win with a time of 1:24:15.
Just 20 seconds behind him, Harri Kalliokoski delivered one of the most intense and consistent performances ever seen on Finnish soil. The duel between Vesala and Kalliokoski held the room in suspense right down to the final draw—a true photo finish that will be remembered for seasons to come.
“There was a moment when no one could tell who would take it,” Petteri remarked. “You could feel the pressure in the silence.”
Niko Saari, a former Finnish champion, completed the podium with a strong 1:19:30. While not enough to reclaim the title this time, his performance solidified his status as one of Finland’s most experienced and respected competitors.
As always, the event was powered by the support of the official global sponsors of the CSWC by Oliva Cigars, including:Oliva Cigars, ST Dupont, Cuervo y Sobrinos Watches, DeART Humidors, Boveda, Damat Tween, Cigar Journal, InterTabac Fair, Les Fines Lames, Bosquet Paris Cigar Etuis, and Hulecos—whose world-class prizes and commitment helped elevate the evening to international standard.
In a country known for its focus, silence, and discipline, CSWC Finland 2025 proved that beneath the calm is a fire—and that fire burns slow.