The Gathering Storm – Green Brigade issued with three-match suspended ban | OneFootball

Celtic have issued a three-match suspended ban to the Green Brigade, following alleged breaches of stadium conduct…

The disciplinary measure, which covers both home games and any away matches that fall within the same timeframe, has already sparked significant debate among supporters.

According to journalist Liam O’Hare, one of the key reasons cited for the suspended ban was the Green Brigade leaving their designated section at Celtic Park to fly Palestinian flags, an act interpreted by many as a show of solidarity amid the ongoing genocide, starvation and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

St Johnstone v Celtic, Scottish Cup semi-final at Hampden Park on Sunday 20 April 2025. Photo by Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

“Celtic punishing those who stand against genocide,” O’Hare stated on social media, drawing attention to what he and many others beside perceive as the club cracking down on political expression rather than safety or conduct.

‘The Green Brigade have been given a three-game suspended home-match ban by Celtic (including any away matches within that period). One of two reasons for the ban relates to leaving their section to fly Palestine flags. Celtic punishing those who stand against genocide.’

At the time of writing the club has not released a detailed public statement specifying the exact reasons for the ban, and O’Hare has only commented on one of the reasons for the ban, whilst it is believed there was a second reason attached, something hopefully the club will clarify soon.

But it seems that the Green Brigade’s actions were viewed as a breach of stadium protocol—specifically, leaving their allocated area without permission, which in theory could pose safety and crowd control concerns.

As with many decisions involving the Green Brigade, reaction among Celtic fans has been divided.

Supporters of the Green Brigade argue that the group is being penalised not for a safety infraction but for its political messaging, particularly on Palestine—a cause the group and many of the support has been vocal about for several years.

Many fans see this as a suppression of free speech and an attempt by the club’s hierarchy to distance itself from any political controversy, regardless of moral grounds.

However, others within the fanbase feel the punishment is warranted. These voices argue that while political causes may be important, the matchday environment must adhere to certain safety and organisational standards. For them, the issue is less about the flags and more about the unauthorised movement around the stadium, which could create logistical or security risks.

Celtic Fans Against Criminalisation Protest Outside Police Station, ahead of Celtic v Hearts match on 29 March 2025..Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou

Some fans also point to a pattern of club-supporter tension over recent years, where the Green Brigade’s ultra-style displays and political banners have sometimes clashed with Celtic’s attempts to maintain a commercially appealing image.

This latest dispute adds to an ongoing friction between the Green Brigade and Celtic CEO Michael Nicholson. Last season, the group unveiled a banner criticising Nicholson directly — a move that reportedly led the club executive to request its removal.

The banner, which condemned aspects of the club’s direction under Nicholson’s leadership, is seen by some as a key moment in the deteriorating relationship between the group and the boardroom. Critics of Nicholson claim the CEO has adopted a more authoritarian approach, marginalising critical voices among the support in favour of corporate unity.

Michael Nicholson, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Celtic, looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League match between Celtic FC and Club Brugge KV at Celtic Park on November 27, 2024 . (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Supporters of the club’s leadership, however, counter that the board is within its rights to enforce rules that ensure safety, legal compliance, and the club’s global reputation, particularly when politically charged issues are involved.

The Green Brigade’s displays in support of Palestine are nothing new and have, in the past, drawn attention from UEFA and mainstream media. Celtic has previously been fined for such actions under rules banning political messages in stadiums, though many fans continue to defend the group’s actions on humanitarian grounds.

Scottish Premiership. Wednesday 14 May 2025. The Celtic support. Aberdeen 1-5 Celtic. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

The suspended nature of the ban means the Green Brigade can still attend upcoming matches, but a repeat infraction could see the suspension activated.

Whether this move marks a final warning or the beginning of further sanctions, it underscores an increasingly fragile relationship between Celtic’s executive leadership and its most politically active supporters.

Meanwhile this is what to expect from the North Curve tomorrow…

Niall J

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