In a remarkable display of solidarity, fans of Scotland’s Celtic Football Club showcased their unwavering support for Palestine during the UEFA Champions League match against Atletico Madrid at Celtic Park in Glasgow. Despite their club’s directives to refrain from displaying symbols related to the Israel-Palestine conflict, the supporters defied the call and created a powerful spectacle of unity.
Hours before the match’s kickoff, Celtic issued a statement urging fans to abstain from exhibiting symbols associated with the ongoing conflict in Israel and Palestine. The club had organized a black armband gesture for players and coaching staff to demonstrate their respect for those affected by the situation. However, fans chose to disregard the club’s plea, instead opting for an impactful demonstration of solidarity.
In the North Curve section of the stadium, fans organized a tifo featuring the Palestinian flag, unfurling large flags behind the home team’s goal during the match. In other sections of the stadium, thousands of supporters raised smaller flags, while collectively singing “You’ll Never Walk Alone” and chanting slogans in support of Palestine.
The Green Brigade, an ultras group that faces a ban from away matches due to what the club deems as “unsafe and unacceptable behaviour,” actively encouraged fans to continue displaying their solidarity. It is worth noting that Celtic recently received a fine from UEFA due to fans’ use of flares during a match against Feyenoord, and the Palestine flag display may lead to further penalties.
The Celtic board had distanced itself from the Green Brigade earlier this month when banners supporting Palestine were exhibited. However, the ultras group criticized the club’s sanctions, alleging an attempt to suppress political expression and freedom of speech.
The passionate display by Celtic’s fans highlights the complexity of the Israel-Palestine conflict and the extent to which football, as a platform with a global following, can become intertwined with broader societal and political issues.
