Alexander Stubb is presenting his strong physical condition in a way that has prompted comparisons with Urho Kekkonen, HBL reports. In politics, the body can become part of the message, signalling stamina, energy and leadership.

Researcher Maiju Wuokko says Kekkonen consciously created a mythology around his physical strength. That historical backdrop is now being used to interpret how Stubb is seen in public life, where physical presence can carry symbolic weight.