Celtic accept 'illicit chant' fine

 

Martyn Ziegler
Tuesday 13 December 2011 11:43 GMT
Comments
Chants from Celtic fans related to the IRA
Chants from Celtic fans related to the IRA (GETTY IMAGES)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Celtic will not appeal against the fine imposed by UEFA for "illicit chanting" at last month's Europa League tie against Rennes at Celtic Park.

UEFA's control and disciplinary panel yesterday imposed a fine of 15,000 euros (£12,700) for chanting at the 3-1 win over Rennes on November 3.

The match delegate was informed of pro-IRA chanting by the Strathclyde police match commander.

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell told his club's official website, www.celticfc.net, today: "The heavy fine imposed by UEFA is an indication of the seriousness with which it treats such matters.

"We would reiterate our own position that, however small a minority is involved, such chanting is not welcome at Celtic Football Club.

"Clearly, it is very disappointing and a source of real regret amongst our supporters that Celtic's proud history of exemplary conduct has been tarnished in this way by such a tiny minority.

"However, this is a clear warning that such behaviour will not be tolerated and together, Celtic Football Club and our supporters will do all we can to ensure that this incident is not repeated.

"We would like to thank our supporters for their magnificent conduct since the match against Rennes. We are proud of the fantastic and positive reputation we have established across Europe over many years, and the club and our fans will be doing all we can to ensure that this is protected."

Earlier this month, Celtic escaped Scottish Premier League action over pro-IRA chanting, the league ruling the club had taken all reasonable action to prevent such "unacceptable conduct", which was reported by police following a goalless draw against Hibernian on October 29.

UEFA have been more willing to punish clubs and national associations in similar instances.

The European governing body have fined Rangers for "discriminatory" behaviour on three occasions, the latest offences also prompting a one-match travel ban on supporters.

PA

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in