Celtic Football Club has issued a statement distancing itself from the Green Brigade’s display of support for Palestine, which was visible on the terraces of Celtic Park this past Saturday in light of the current situation.
The club has clarified that the banners do not reflect its views and has disassociated itself from them, condemning the display of such messages at Celtic Park.
The club emphasised that it is a football organisation, not a political entity. One of its foundational values is to be inclusive, welcoming all individuals irrespective of their race, colour, politics, or creed. As such, Celtic has consistently stated that political messages and banners have no place at Celtic Park or at any match involving the club. The statement highlighted that it is particularly inappropriate to use Celtic Park as a platform for such messages during a time when many are experiencing loss and suffering.
Celtic Football Club urges all supporters to focus on backing the players and the club, while also respecting the rights and beliefs of others, especially those who are impacted by violence and hatred.
The Green Brigade have long been supporters of the Palestinian cause and raised over £130k after the club was fined by UEFA for displaying the Palestine flag at a game against Israeli opposition.
Celtic once pulled down a show of support for Palestine when the Green Brigade put up flags without asking Celtic during the pandemic season when they were putting up a banner for the outgoing Scott Brown.
We will likely see the supporters group come back at Celtic over the issue.