Huge turnout for Celtic Fans Collective pre-match protest

In partnership with

The Celtic Star

·30 ottobre 2025

Huge turnout for Celtic Fans Collective pre-match protest

A rare appearance from Dermot Desmond coincided with a night of high emotion at Celtic Park, as thousands of supporters gathered outside the stadium before kick-off to demand change at board level…

Martin O’Neill celebrates Celtic’s opening goal during the Premier League match between Celtic and Falkirk at Celtic Park on October 29, 2025 (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Inside, Martin O’Neill rolled back the years, and perhaps a few tactics, as he guided Celtic to a 4-0 win over Falkirk in his first match back in charge after 20 years.

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The Celtic Fans Collective had called for supporters to assemble early ahead of the match, describing it as a pivotal moment for the club.

Celtic fan protest poster outside Celtic Park on 29 October 2025. Photo The Celtic Star

“We acknowledge a midweek fixture is difficult for some fans to arrive early. However, this is a watershed moment for Celtic and the supporters, and we encourage as many as possible to join us,” their statement read before the protest. Change is essential, and it can be achieved. Send them a message from 7pm tonight.”

By that time, thousands had answered the Collective’s call. The turnout was huge, filling the area outside the main stand, and further, a clear signal of unity and purpose from a support that’s far from apathetic.

Celtic Fans Collective protest at Celtic Park ahead of the Celtic v Falkirk match. 29 October 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

While the passion was undeniable, the atmosphere was affected slightly by technical issues that left many unable to hear the speakers. Yet, even with the sound faltering, the sight of so many supporters standing shoulder to shoulder sent a powerful message in itself.

One supporter speaking to The Celtic Star, who is not in the supporter groups who make up the Collective, but wanted to join the protest, described the event as both a success and a learning moment.

Celtic Fans Collective protest at Celtic Park ahead of the Celtic v Falkirk match. 29 October 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

“The turnout was brilliant — definitely thousands by seven o’clock — but you couldn’t hear a thing. The PA system didn’t work, and there wasn’t any sort of stand or platform. It flattened the atmosphere a bit, which was a shame. Definitely needs a proper orator and leadership and more visuals to hand out… saw about 30 posters handed out, that’s all.”

Celtic Fans Collective protest at Celtic Park ahead of the Celtic v Falkirk match. 29 October 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

The fan added that a few small touches could elevate future events even further.

“Someone could have gone round collecting donations for future protests — I’d brought change in case they did. The will for change is definitely there, it just needs direction.”

The Collective were quick to acknowledge the feedback they received, issuing a statement after the match that combined humility with pride in the turnout.

“Apologies to anyone who couldn’t hear our speakers due to PA issues last night,” they said, adding: “In the end, the numbers spoke for themselves – thousands made their voices heard loud and clear. Thank you for standing together and for amplifying the message.”

Celtic Chairman Peter Lawwell, Dermot Desmond, largest shareholder and Michael Nicholson CEO are seen during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Falkirk at Celtic Park on October 29, 2025. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, inside Celtic Park, Desmond had a clear view of both the strength of feeling outside and the unity among supporters. His rare presence came at a time of growing scrutiny over communication and leadership within the club’s hierarchy.

In recent days, the club’s official statements, including those surrounding Brendan Rodgers’ departure, have come not from the CEO or chairman, but from CFO Chris McKay, who signed off the stock market announcement, and Desmond himself, whose own response left many questioning the balance of power and transparency at the top of the club. An NED in charge of comms is not a good look for a PLC.

Celtic Fans Collective protest at Celtic Park ahead of the Celtic v Falkirk match. 29 October 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

The irony won’t have been lost on anyone that a protest demanding better communication from Celtic was itself hampered by its own technical breakdown. But that should not detract from what was achieved, a major turnout that was peaceful, passionate, and unified. This was visible proof that the Celtic support, from all corners of the fanbase, can come together with one voice when it matters.

The challenge now is for The Collective to harness that energy, refine their approach, and keep that sense of momentum building. Because if last night showed anything, it’s that when Celtic supporters mobilise, they can and, eventually, will be heard.

It will be interesting to see how the Collective move forward. There is certainly a will from supporters who are not part of the supporter groups who make up the Collective to also play their part.

Celtic Fans Collective protest at Celtic Park ahead of the Celtic v Falkirk match. 29 October 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

Many will bring their own skill sets to strengthen the group, and it appears there is also a willingness from many to contribute financially too.

Hopefully there are plans afoot to recognise this and tap into the appetite of those not in supporter groups, those outside Scotland, or abroad, who want to play their part and also support the group financially.

There were rumours recently that a subscription style scheme could emerge. That could be an excellent vehicle for not only raising funds on a consistent basis but also ensuring the Collective grows even stronger.

Niall J

Celtic Fans Collective protest at Celtic Park ahead of the Celtic v Falkirk match. 29 October 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

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Celtic in the Eighties and Willie Fernie – Putting on the Style both by David Potter. Photo The Celtic Star

Danny McGrain signing copies of Celtic in the Eighties by David Potter. Photo: Celtic Star Books