The issue of pyrotechnics at football matches has long been a subject of debate, and once again, Celtic FC finds itself at the centre of this controversy. Following a recent match against Feyenoord in Rotterdam, the club has been fined by UEFA for its fans’ use of pyro, Celtsarehere can reveal.
The club has been handed a €23400 fine by the European governing body. While the visual spectacle of flares and smoke bombs can add a certain atmosphere to a game, the risks and repercussions are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
It’s no secret that UEFA’s fines for Celtic are on an upward trajectory. Each new incident adds not just to the financial burden but also to the reputational damage. A spokesperson for the club expressed their concern, stating, “Clearly, we are concerned that, despite repeated requests and safety warnings, a small minority continue to use pyrotechnics at Celtic’s matches.” The club’s plea for restraint seems to be falling on deaf ears among a subset of fans, and the financial repercussions are becoming hard to ignore.
Beyond the financial aspect, there’s the undeniable issue of safety. The club’s spokesperson emphasised, “The use of pyrotechnics represents a serious risk to the safety of our supporters.” While the majority of fans are there to enjoy the game and support their team responsibly, it only takes a few to endanger many. The club is concerned about the well-being of its supporters.
We. believe that while the use of pyro needs to stop under the current conditions, there should be a more collaborative approach in the future. We urge football authorities to work with fans to explore safer ways to create that vibrant atmosphere not just for Celtic fans but for the wider football community. As long as the club continues to be punished with fines, it’s crucial to look for alternative methods.
With Celtic set to take on Lazio in the Wednesday evening tie at Celtic Park, any use of pyro in the stands will result in more unwanted attention from UEFA.
