Sport nationBRENDAN RODGERS ADDRESSES CELTIC’S PYROTECHNICS ISSUE AND ITS IMPACT ON FANS
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has once again spoken out about the issue of pyrotechnics at Celtic matches, following the club’s recent punishment by the SPFL. The governing body has sanctioned Celtic for the use of pyrotechnics at the Premier Sports Cup semi-final and final, resulting in a reduction of 500 tickets for their next Premier Sports Cup match at Hampden Park.
Rodgers has consistently urged Celtic fans to refrain from using pyrotechnics, citing safety concerns and the potential negative impact on the team and supporters. In a recent press conference, Rodgers reiterated his plea to fans, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful atmosphere at matches.
“I always want, obviously, our support base to have as many supporters as they can be there, with noise, with colour, with everything, and that makes our support absolutely brilliant,” Rodgers said. “So, yes, I’ve seen that, but I know the club are dealing with that.”
Rodgers acknowledged that while some countries permit the use of pyrotechnics at football matches, the UK has stricter regulations due to safety concerns. He expressed his hope that Celtic fans would understand the risks associated with pyrotechnics and choose alternative ways to express their support.
“I think it is something I have to say, I’m not going to be closed on my thinking on it either, because I know it is in other countries where it is accepted, and there is engagement there with supporters to have it,” Rodgers said. “But I think normally over here in the UK we deem it as more dangerous than being a part of the colour of the games.”
The Celtic manager emphasized that the club’s supporters are renowned for their passion and creativity, and he encouraged them to find alternative ways to showcase their enthusiasm.
“I just think if it has a possibility to affect people’s health, and put them in any danger, then I just think there are other things we can do that can still create an amazing atmosphere,” Rodgers said. “I’ve seen it so many times, what we can do without the pyro.”
Celtic has issued a strong statement to supporters, accepting the SPFL’s punishment and urging fans to refrain from using pyrotechnics. The club emphasized that the actions of a small minority of supporters should not negatively impact the wider fan base.
The statement read: “Celtic Football Club notes today’s SPFL judgement relating to the use of pyrotechnics at matches… It is well known that we also currently face a UEFA suspended sentence as a result of the previous use of pyrotechnics… The fact that the use of pyrotechnics by a small minority is now adversely affecting the attendance of our supporters at matches should act as a very serious wake-up call to those involved.”
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