Rodgers Urges Celtic Fans to End Pyro Displays Ahead of Potential Ban
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has called on the club’s supporters to cease the use of pyrotechnics during matches, as mounting concerns over safety and potential regulatory sanctions threaten to result in stricter consequences for the club. The plea comes as Scottish football authorities continue to scrutinize the use of flares and smoke bombs at stadiums, with the risk of stadium closures or supporter bans looming if the issue persists.
Rodgers, speaking ahead of Celtic’s upcoming fixtures, expressed his appreciation for the passionate support that Hoops fans provide but urged them to prioritize safety and respect the rules of the game.
Addressing the situation, Rodgers said, “Our fans are among the most dedicated and vibrant in the world, and their passion is something that drives the team forward. However, we need to make sure that this passion is displayed in a way that’s safe for everyone. The use of pyrotechnics is something that brings with it risks, not only to the fans themselves but to the club as well, in terms of sanctions. We don’t want anything to take away from the great atmosphere at Celtic Park.”
Rodgers’ comments reflect growing concerns within Scottish football circles over the use of flares and other pyro devices at matches. Pyrotechnics, while visually striking, present potential safety hazards, including burns, breathing issues, and even fire risks within densely packed stadium environments.
The Scottish FA and SPFL have been ramping up their efforts to clamp down on pyro usage, with recent incidents at Celtic Park and other stadiums across the league drawing increased scrutiny. This has led to discussions over possible sanctions, including fines, partial stadium closures, and even the potential for fans to be banned from future matches.
Celtic has already been fined in the past by UEFA for the use of pyrotechnics during European fixtures, and the prospect of further punishments could have serious ramifications, especially if it impacts the club’s reputation on the international stage.
“We’ve already seen the consequences that can come from this,” Rodgers added. “Fines are one thing, but the last thing any of us want is for our fans to be excluded from the ground or for the atmosphere at Celtic Park to be impacted in any way. We need everyone to come together on this.”
While some Celtic fans have defended the use of pyrotechnics as part of the ultra fan culture that has grown in recent years, others within the support base are echoing Rodgers’ call, recognizing the potential dangers and the threat of punishment from governing bodies.
In response to the issue, Celtic has already begun implementing increased security measures at matches, with stewards conducting more thorough searches and educating fans on the dangers of using pyrotechnics. The club has also partnered with fan groups to encourage safer alternatives to flares, such as LED displays and coordinated light shows, which can provide a similar spectacle without the associated risks.
As Celtic continues its domestic and European campaigns, the pressure is on both the club and its fans to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Rodgers’ plea is seen as a crucial step in encouraging a safer matchday experience while preserving the iconic atmosphere at Celtic Park.
With potential sanctions on the horizon, the Celtic faithful will be hoping that their passionate displays can continue in a way that keeps the club free from further penalties. Rodgers, for his part, remains hopeful that a collective effort from the fans will ensure that the focus remains on the football rather than the off-field concerns.
“Celtic fans are known for creating one of the best atmospheres in world football. Let’s keep it that way — without the risk,” Rodgers concluded.
Read more on;https://sportupdates.co.uk
Leave a Reply