Celtic Issue Monday Night Glasgow Derby Statement

Celtic have this evening issued a formal statement addressing widespread complaints from supporters regarding the policing operation surrounding Sunday’s Glasgow Derby.

The club confirmed it has received multiple reports about the treatment of a section of the Celtic support—believed to be members of the Green Brigade—who were subjected to what has been described as a heavy-handed and prolonged operation by Police Scotland before and during the match at Celtic Park.

The statement, released on Celtic’s official website late Monday, outlines the club’s intention to review the matter thoroughly. Around 90 supporters were kettled for close to five hours and prevented from making their way towards the stadium.

The GB has alleged they were told they would not be permitted to move unless they removed any face coverings, including hats and sunglasses, surrendered personal information, and agreed to full-body searches despite not participating in any criminality. This due to Police Scotland invoking section 60 public order act. Many chose not to comply and remained encircled by police for the duration of the incident.

Rangers fans in the stands during the William Hill Premiership match at Celtic Park, Glasgow. Picture date: Sunday March 16, 2025.

The approach has sparked outrage across the fanbase, with widespread criticism aimed at the authorities over what is being described as an unnecessary escalation. Celtic confirmed they are now engaging with both supporters and Police Scotland in an effort to get clarity on the circumstances.

In the statement, the club said:

“Celtic Football Club has received complaints regarding the policing operation concerning yesterday’s match, specifically events away from Celtic Park.

We are reviewing our supporters’ concerns and will be looking into these issues.

It is important that these matters are addressed and the Club will be engaging in discussions with supporters and Police Scotland to understand the circumstances and events.”

It’s really important this is properly addressed and there’s no repeat of this going forward.

Cerny Incident Now Under Police Review

While not naming names, the club also spoke about behaviour of opposition players, one which we’re clear is aimed at Vaclav Cerny.” The Czech winger sparked fury among home fans when he was seen spraying water from his bottle into the stands towards Celtic supporters following Rangers’ late winning goal.

The club confirmed they have raised this issue with the relevant authorities. In the aftermath of Cerny’s behaviour, Celtsarehere understand police had to react quickly to manage the situation and prevent any escalation in the affected area of the ground due to the idiocy of the Ibrox winger.

Celtic’s statement also alludes to more misbehaviour from their players, making reference to ‘members’ of the away team.:

“With regards to the match at Celtic Park, we can also confirm that the Club has raised concerns regarding members of the away team engaging with Celtic supporters with the relevant authorities.”

While the feeling remains that such matters are best handled by football’s governing bodies, the involvement of the police highlights the seriousness of the situation.

The fallout from Sunday’s derby continues both on and off the pitch. While Celtic didn’t get the result they wanted, the Hoops remain focused on securing the SPFL title—needing just four more wins to do so.

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