Hammarby and Mjällby Seek Neutral Ground for Swedish Cup Final, Draw Postponed

The draw for the Swedish Cup finals, originally scheduled for today, has been postponed as Hammarby and Mjällby have jointly requested a change to the traditional format. Both clubs are advocating for the final to be played at a neutral venue, mirroring cup final arrangements in many other countries.

Calls for Sporting Fairness

Hammarby CEO Richard von Yxkull articulated the club’s position, stating a preference for a “similar arrangement as you have when it comes to cups around the world,” where the final is hosted at a pre-selected arena. Mjällby’s sports director, Mikael Hjelmberg, echoed this sentiment, citing “sporting justice” as the rationale behind the request. The Swedish Football Association has confirmed that both clubs submitted the proposal to host the final at the Strawberry arena.

Decision Pending Competition Committee Review

Von Yxkull emphasized the collaborative nature of the request, stating, “Now we have discussed whether this is possible and what applies. We together with Mjällby, of course. We stand behind the fact that this is best for Hammarby and best for Swedish football.” The club likewise expressed a similar desire for a neutral venue for the women’s final, featuring Hammarby against BK Häcken, though discussions on that front have not yet yielded a concrete outcome.

Upcoming Cup Finals Schedule

• Ladies’ Final: BK Häcken – Hammarby, May 16 (schedule TBD)
• Gentlemen’s Final: Hammarby – Mjällby, May 14 (schedule TBD)

The finals will be broadcast on Expressen.