Banijay Finland brings thriller based on national skiing scandal to screen

Laura Birn (left) and MInna Virkajärvi

Birn photo: Marica Rosengard

Banijay Finland is developing a thriller series inspired by one of Finland’s most notorious sporting scandals and based on a book by sports journalist Johanna Aatsalo.

Disqualified was unveiled at the MIA market in Rome this week and has actor Laura Birn (Foundation, Purge) attached to star.

The series follows Aatsalo as she uncovers evidence of systematic doping within the country’s world-famous national ski team. Expecting the truth to prevail, she instead finds herself plunged into a battle against powerful institutions, public outrage and a justice system that turns against her.

Minna Virkajärvi, exec producer at Banijay Finland, said: “Combining the tension of an investigative thriller with the emotional depth of a character-driven drama, Disqualified examines what happens when an individual challenges powerful institutions and refuses to be silenced.”

Banijay Finland’s scripted slate spans series, feature films and vertical storytelling. These include crime titles Murder in Hanko and Detective Maria Kallio; comedies Queen Heist and Supporting Actor; vertical drama Survival Sisters; young-adult dance drama Dance Brothers; and film The Good Widow.