There’s a bold vision emerging from Hampden that could reshape the future of women’s football in Scotland – and Celtic Women could be at the heart of it. [TCW]
Scottish FA President Mike Mulraney has reportedly sparked early conversations about a new shared stadium for Glasgow’s three professional women’s teams: Celtic, Rangers, and Glasgow City. While the discussions are still in their infancy, the proposal suggests a purpose-built arena in the city, complete with a 4G surface and seating for between 3,000 and 5,000 fans.
It’s no secret that facilities for the women’s game in Scotland have lagged behind. At present, Celtic Women play home matches at Hamilton’s New Douglas Park – far from ideal for a club of our stature. Rangers use Broadwood in Cumbernauld, and Glasgow City play at the modest Petershill Park. The aim of this project is to give these teams a proper home, one that reflects their growing stature and ambitions, while also enhancing the matchday experience for supporters.
The proposed ground wouldn’t just serve club football either. The Scotland women’s national team could also benefit from the venue, with the aim of boosting attendances and creating a more vibrant match atmosphere. Plans to host double-header fixtures and bring more fans into the fold are part of a broader push to grow the game ahead of the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which Scotland is set to co-host.
Mulraney has made improving grassroots and women’s football facilities a top priority. Through the “Pitching In” campaign, £13.5m of a £50m target has already been raised to support new pitches and modernised changing rooms across the country.
Fiona McIntyre, Managing Director of the SWPL, believes the lack of suitable venues is one of the biggest challenges facing the women’s game. She’s right – we’ve seen how 5,000 fans can feel lost in a 50,000-seat stadium like Hampden. What the women’s game needs is atmosphere, identity, and a space to grow – something this proposed stadium could possibly deliver.
From a Celtic point of view, it remains to be seen whether the club would agree to a stadium share with Rangers and Glasgow City, given the existing rivalries.
