The Green Brigade has now officially reacted to the news that emerged last night confirming that Celtic FC has removed the five-month suspension imposed on the ultras group. This means the Celtic ultras will return to the North Curve this weekend for the pivotal clash against St Mirren, as Celtic continue their push for an unlikely Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup double despite what has been a largely self-inflicted and turbulent campaign.
The full statement is included below, followed by a series of short-term and medium-term suggestions for Celtic FC to reflect upon. It is disappointing, however, that there was no reference to the ongoing and controversial ban affecting Celtic fan media, particularly considering the consistent backing the Celtic ultras have received from The Celtic Star and several other fan platforms impacted by the continuing restriction.
Here is the full statement released by the Green Brigade earlier today:
“Following a five-month and 32-match suspension, Celtic FC has finally lifted the unjustified and unfair suspension of 250 supporters.
“In doing so, all affected supporters will receive a pro-rata refund for matches missed; and be credited with away points they would otherwise have accrued. We believe this is vindication that there was no basis for the suspensions.
“While we are naturally pleased to be officially returning to Celtic matches, we will not forget the experience of recent months and the personal impact it has had on supporters. There remains deep structural and cultural concerns within the club which must be robustly addressed to avoid similar, widespread supporter-breakdowns which have plagued this season.
“It remains our expectation that all Celtic supporters – including the Green Brigade – must be treated fairly, proportionately and with respect by the club, its stewards and police officers, particularly when on the footprint of Celtic Park. We are satisfied that conditions on lawful supporter expression and conduct towards police officers have been dropped thus proving them to be wholly inappropriate.”
“For 20 years, it has been the Celtic support that has funded and fuelled the Green Brigade. Your support over recent months, particularly by sharing match tickets to circumvent suspensions, has been invaluable. In particular, we would like to thank the Celtic Fans Collective for its consistent advocacy and Bhoys Celtic for its unwavering solidarity.
Despite the actions of the board, Celtic still retains a genuine opportunity to rescue something from this season. The group is eager and determined to return to Celtic Park and rally behind the team. However, this duty is not limited to the Green Brigade alone. Every supporter has a role to play—no contribution is too big or too small, and no one is excluded regardless of age.”