Celtic's "disappointing" flag day fixture date situation has been clarified by the SPFL chief operating officer.
The Hoops confirmed this morning that they had tried their best to avoid their opening game of the new season being played on a Monday evening.
It had been reported that, due to scheduling conflicts regarding the Commonwealth Games, Celts would be forced to play their game in a 7.30pm kick-off time on the Monday.
The Scottish champions explained their frustration and acknowledged the impact it might have on supporters.
Now SPFL COO, Calum Beattie, has revealed the thought process behind the decision following discussions with cops over safety measures.
"The event is not on the same scale as 2014 when both Barclays Hampden Park and Celtic Park were venues, so the impact on SPFL fixtures is more limited this time," he said.
"However, the closing weekend of the 2026 Commonwealth Games coincides with our opening weekend and there are events scheduled at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome. As a result, and following discussions with relevant stakeholders including Police Scotland, Celtic’s opening game against Dundee will be played on Monday August 3, live on Sky Sports at 7.30pm."
Celtic confirmed in their statement that they had "repeatedly" attempted to change the decision.
They wrote: "Celtic Football Club has been informed that its first match will be played on Monday, August 3, 2026 in the forthcoming league season.
"With the fixtures being officially released today, it is important that supporters are aware of this as early as possible and the background to this decision, which is outwith our control.
"Clearly, our priority will always be our supporters and, against any measure, staging the Champions Flag Day on a Monday evening is disappointing.
"We have made repeated representations to Police Scotland and to the SPFL to avoid this scheduling, however, surprisingly, we have been told that there is no choice owing to Police Scotland being unable to support the fixture on a weekend which co-incides with other events.
"Through positive dialogue with the SPFL and Sky Sports, however, it has been agreed that in recognition of the demands placed on our travelling supporters, particularly from Ireland, the kick off will be brought forward to the earlier time of 7.30pm from the previously designated 8pm start, something which is significant for travel connections.
"While it will never detract from the team’s phenomenal and most deserving achievement, we feel strongly that a weekend timing should have been facilitated in the interests of both teams, both sets of supporters and the status of the fixture.
"Regardless of these disappointing circumstances we will still ensure that this a very special day for our supporters as we celebrate our fifth consecutive Premiership title."
