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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
David Irvine

Ultras call out 'intimidation or castigation' in Celtic Trongate title party response

Celtic ultras have called on supporters to disregard "intimidation or castigation" as they prepare for a Trongate title party.

A statement issued on the North Curve Celtic X account, signed by the Green Brigade and the Bhoys fan group, claims there was "no will to engage with fans" over plans for a mass celebration of the Scottish Premiership title.

Previous posts stated a title party would take place in the Trongate area of Glasgow following the final league game of the season against St Mirren at Celtic Park.

Thousands of supporters have gathered in the area to celebrate winning the league title in previous years.

The Celtic ultras post cited rising season ticket prices, restrictions on fan tifos, and communications on fan issues as problems faced in recent years.

In particular, discussing the Trongate title party, the group states the Celtic response followed a pattern of communications which "typically feed into a derogatory narrative on Celtic or football fans generally."

The group states months notice was given but there was no desire from the club or authorities to collaborate to find a solution.


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A statement read: "As another successful season draws to a close, we would like to thank the Celtic support for your continued backing. Your moral and financial support sustains the Celtic ultras scene, which we're particularly grateful for given cost of living challenges coupled with the crippling costs of following Celtic.

"This season, Bhoys Celtic celebrated its 10th season; meanwhile next season will be the Green Brigade's 20th season. For both groups, these respective milestones mark survival in an environment pitted against us and has only been possible because you have embraced what we do.

"Fundamentally, we exist to support and celebrate Celtic. We believe we add value to the overall Celtic experience, while accepting that our style is not favourable to all. Rooted in our existence is the belief that ALL fans deserve more from the game.

"Over recent months, we have liaised with ultras groups across Scotland in a bid to achieve a fairer deal for all fans. We have learned that while Celtic comfortably leads Scottish football on the park, off the park - in relation to fan engagement - Celtic trails the rest.

"A perfect example of this is the price increase to Season Tickets which ironically lost two matches in 2023. Another example is the restrictions on fan tifos - while cynically seeking to replace these with outsourced efforts. A final example is communications on any fan issue - which typically feed into a derogatory narrative on Celtic or football fans generally.

"The 'Trongate Title Party' is the most recent example of this. It is another example of police, authorities and football clubs disregarding the role and importance of fans. Despite several months notice, there was no will to engage with fans on this issue. There is no framework, culture nor will to engage with fans on any issue.

"As another long and expensive season draws to a close, we encourage fans to celebrate in a fashion they deem fit; irrespective of any intimidation or castigation from those who already look down on us."

A Celtic statement had earlier urged supporters not to join unplanned title celebrations in Glasgow.

It read: “Congratulations on being a Champion again and thank you for the fantastic support you have given the Club throughout the season.    

“We want everyone to enjoy these very special moments, and we look forward to welcoming our fans to Celtic Park on Saturday for another great Trophy Day celebration.

“Outside of Celtic Park, while we want to celebrate in style, we want to do so mindful of others and in a safe and responsible manner.   

“The Club has engaged in recent months with local community and residents’ groups, many of which include Celtic supporters, and it is clear that large gatherings in public spaces, even when positive and celebratory, can cause issues for those living and working in these areas.

“While previous celebrations involving Celtic fans have been well-intentioned, unfortunately, as local community stakeholders have made clear in recent weeks, some of these have led to severe congestion and difficulties for emergency services, residents and local businesses. 

“Further, without the planning, facilities and infrastructure of an organised, licensed event, the number of supporters present at previous gatherings has become so great that the safety of fans has also become an issue of real concern.  

“The Club encourages supporters to follow the advice issued recently by local community stakeholders in this regard.

“For all of these reasons, the Club would encourage supporters not to attend unlicensed large public gatherings, which do not have safety planning, facilities or infrastructure for supporters attending.

“Celtic has been trying for some time to work with city stakeholders to seek to discuss and develop plans, which might allow for a more suitable venue for celebratory events away from Celtic Park.  

“We can assure our fans that we will continue to do so, as we strive to develop appropriate arrangements for our supporters in the future, as is the case in other cities.   

“As we enjoy our fourth successive Premiership Title, let’s celebrate safely and responsibly. Everyone at Celtic thanks you sincerely for your continued support.”

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