Celtic launch wide-ranging plans to strengthen supporter relations | OneFootball

Celtic have unveiled sweeping plans to reshape how the club interacts with supporters, with a fresh fan engagement strategy set to be rolled out throughout the 2026/27 campaign.

Celtic chairman Brian Wilson during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Falkirk at Celtic Park on February 01, 2026. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

The Scottish champions say the new approach is designed to place supporters at the centre of decision-making, strengthening communication both on and off the pitch.

Interim chairman Brian Wilson pointed to the club’s history and the backing supporters provided during last season’s dramatic title-winning run as the inspiration behind the initiative.

A Celtic statement read: “Jock Stein famously said ‘football without fans is nothing’.

“Celtic supporters are renowned throughout the world for their passion and commitment to the Club.

“The power to make a difference when united in support of the team was confirmed in dramatic fashion in the closing stages of last season.”

Wilson explained that the club intends to build stronger relationships with supporters by introducing more effective and accessible methods of communication.

“We have made a commitment to improving our approach to supporter engagement and to create a structure through which better two-way communication can be achieved between the Club and the broad base of the support.”

As part of the changes, Celtic have created a new Head of Supporter Engagement position, with long-serving Supporter Liaison Officer John Paul Taylor stepping into the role to oversee an expanded department focused on supporter relations.

The club also plans to recruit a Supporter Engagement Coordinator as it increases resources dedicated to listening to and responding to fans.

Wilson praised the existing dialogue with supporter organisations but believes there is scope to widen that engagement.

“We now aim to do more to enhance the breadth and quality of that engagement.”

Celtic’s Fans’ Forum will also be revamped, with future events scheduled to take place at locations beyond Celtic Park in an effort to reach supporters across different communities and encourage broader participation.

A new consultation body, named “Celtic Connect”, is also being proposed. The forum would bring together a representative group of supporters alongside board members and senior executives to discuss issues affecting both the club and its fanbase.

Supporters have been invited to help shape the model before it is introduced, with feedback on the proposals being accepted through an online consultation until 5pm on Friday, August 28.

Wilson stressed that meaningful supporter engagement would require a number of different initiatives rather than a single appointment or project.

“As promised, this will not be through a single measure or appointment.

“We need a range of channels through which the views of the support can be reflected and responded to.”

The overhaul also forms part of Celtic’s wider digital strategy, with the club highlighting the launch of its official app and the introduction of CelticPlayer as key developments that will continue to evolve in the years ahead.

Wilson believes the investment will help preserve the club’s identity while strengthening ties with supporters for the future.

“By investing in our people, structures, and technology, and by opening up new opportunities for meaningful supporter voice and participation, we will shape an engagement approach that reflects the values, passion, and traditions of Celtic Football Club while helping to realise our ambitions for generations to come.”

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