UEFA has imposed a one-match ban on Celtic’s away fans after supporters set off flares during a recent Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund. The decision came after fans ignored multiple warnings and lit fireworks before their team’s 7-1 loss in Germany.
Although this penalty is a concern for the club and its fans, it has been suspended for two years. This allows Celtic supporters to travel to Bergamo for the upcoming Champions League match against Atalanta. However, if there are any further incidents during the suspension period, the ban could be enforced, preventing away fans from attending a future game.
Along with the suspended ban, Celtic was fined €20,000. UEFA’s official statement said:
Decision: The CEDB has decided: To fine Celtic FC €20,000 and to ban Celtic FC from selling tickets to its away supporters for a total of one (1) UEFA club competition match, for lighting of fireworks. Said ban from selling tickets to its away supporters is suspended for a probationary period of two (2) years, starting from the date of the present decision.”
This is not the first time Celtic has faced UEFA penalties over the use of pyrotechnics, with the club’s ultras often disregarding rules, especially at away games. Although fans can attend the match in Italy next week, a repeat offense could trigger the ban before the end of the season, which would be a setback for traveling supporters.
The club will need to address this persistent issue, as further violations of UEFA rules could lead to bigger fines and possibly more severe penalties in the future. For now, all attention is on Bergamo, where Celtic fans must decide whether to follow the rules or risk activating the suspended ban this season.
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