The first first major football tournament Finland’s men had qualified for will now take place a year later than planned thanks to the coronavirus pandemic.
Uefa announced the postponement on Tuesday evening, with the European Championship now scheduled to run from 11 June to 11 July in 2021.
Finland captain Tim Sparv welcomed the decision.
"When you consider this situation, the decision is the only correct one," said Sparv. "But of course at the same time it’s a disappointment. Players and fans alike have waited for so long for Finland to play in a European championship."
"Fans can now enjoy the games without fear of coronavirus, but not this year. It’s the right and responsible decision."
Finland had qualified for the tournament in November with a 3-0 win over Liechtenstein. It was the first time the country had ever qualified for the World Cup or European Championships, regarded as the major prestige tournaments in international football.
The women have qualified for three European championships, in 2005, 2009 and 2013. They sit top of their group in qualification for the 2021 women’s European Championships, which according to Swedish media is now expected to be postponed by a year to avoid a clash with the men’s tournament.