The SPFL has wasted no time flexing its disciplinary muscle this season, issuing an early sanction to Celtic over pyrotechnic use at a home match against St Mirren.
Celtic were found to have breached SPFL Rules H36 and H37, which specifically prohibit the use of pyrotechnics at league fixtures. The breach occurred during the Celtic’s 1-0 win over the Paisley side on flag day.
The governing body has imposed a conditional penalty of 200 ticket reductions in the area of the stadium where the pyro display took place. This sanction is suspended for now, but it will be triggered if there’s another incident involving pyrotechnics by Celtic supporters in the same area at any SPFL competition match before 30 June 2026.
In simple terms, one more breach and 200 fans could be locked out of a future home match — a clear warning shot from the SPFL. We don’t get no the logistics of the ban should it come into force, given the area will be full of season ticket holders.
While no immediate ticket reduction will take effect, the message is blunt: future rule-breaking won’t be tolerated. The move indicates a stricter approach from the league this term, possibly in response to ongoing concerns over fan safety and the wider use of pyrotechnics across Scottish football grounds.
This isn’t the first time Celtic fans have drawn disciplinary focus for displays involving flares or smoke bombs. The Green Brigade, the club’s most vocal ultras group, has often courted controversy with UEFA and domestic authorities over similar incidents.
However, this latest action is firmly rooted in SPFL jurisdiction — and the league appears determined to set a precedent early in the 2025/26 campaign.
Clubs have long walked a tightrope between encouraging atmosphere and ensuring compliance. This sanction puts that balance back under the microscope at Celtic Park.
As of now, the club has not publicly responded to the decision.
