UPDATE: Celtic FC has confirmed the potential closure of its safe standing section amid serious safety concerns raised by council authorities. Tensions escalated following a violent incident involving the Green Brigade during the Falkirk match on October 28, leading to a temporary ban for approximately 200 members of the fan group.
The club announced that due to ongoing safety issues, particularly threats made against the Head of Safety and Security Operations, they are now forced to close the first six rows of the safe standing area at Celtic Park, impacting around 3,000 fans who typically occupy the section. Officials from Glasgow City Council met with Celtic representatives on November 28 to address these alarming developments.
The Green Brigade has reportedly ignored previous bans and continued to attend matches, raising alarms about fan safety. In response, Celtic has indefinitely suspended access to tickets for the Green Brigade, affecting both home games at Celtic Park and away fixtures.
“The Club wishes to advise Celtic supporters that the suspension of the Green Brigade has been extended due to safety incidents… This suspension will remain in place until the Club is satisfied that the Green Brigade will engage in the safe operation of the stadium,”
stated a club representative.
The decision comes on the heels of a tumultuous AGM last month, where tensions between the Green Brigade and Celtic management reached a boiling point. Fans are now planning a protest march against the club hierarchy before the upcoming match against Hearts on Sunday.
As Celtic prepares to face Dundee this Wednesday night, this match will mark the final game for Martin O’Neill as manager before Wilfried Nancy takes over. This situation casts a shadow over the team’s preparations, with safety now a pressing concern ahead of the match.
The Green Brigade’s conduct has prompted a Safety Advisory Group meeting, and any further violations during this suspension could jeopardize the safety certificate for Celtic Park. The club emphasizes that the ongoing suspension is strictly related to safety issues and not to any protests or banners.
Celtic FC continues to express its resolve to work with fans on ensuring safety but cannot overlook recent conduct that threatens the well-being of all supporters. The outcome of this situation remains uncertain as both the club and the Green Brigade face mounting pressure.
As developments unfold, fans and observers alike are urged to stay tuned for updates on this evolving situation that could significantly alter the matchday experience at Celtic Park.
