A leading Celtic supporters’ organisation has urged fans to stage a boycott in protest at the club’s current direction.
The Celtic Fans Collective has called on supporters to stay away from Saturday’s Scottish Cup tie against Dundee, arguing that stronger action is now required to force change. Formed in the wake of the summer transfer window, the group says it wants to send what it describes as a “clear and unequivocal message” to the club’s leadership.
The Collective acknowledges that a boycott is an emotionally charged step for many supporters, but believes it is necessary if meaningful progress is to be made.
In a statement released after a meeting of its members, the group confirmed that the vast majority of supporters’ club representatives, fan groups and independent fans backed the proposal to boycott the match.
“Following another disappointing transfer window, the Celtic Fans Collective met to discuss the ongoing campaign for positive change at the football club,” the statement read. “An overwhelming majority voted in favour of a boycott of Saturday evening’s cup match against Dundee.”
The group cited several ongoing grievances, including the continued ban of the Green Brigade, restrictions placed on fan media, and dissatisfaction with the club’s executive leadership. The CFC has repeatedly called for chief executive Michael Nicholson to be replaced, for the Green Brigade to be reinstated, and for media restrictions affecting coverage of both the men’s and women’s teams to be lifted.
“With supporters unjustly banned, fan media shut out and an executive team widely viewed as unfit for purpose, the feeling within the Collective is that the time for action has arrived,” the statement continued.
The CFC also revealed that it had previously offered to meet with chairman Brian Wilson following his call for unity last month, but claims that approach went unanswered. Despite that, the group insists it remains willing to engage in dialogue.
“While we recognise how difficult this decision will be for many supporters, we encourage fans to stand with us and demand decisive action, real change and the restoration of positive communication with supporters,” the statement added.
The Collective has warned that, unless its concerns are addressed, further protest action is being planned in the coming weeks. In closing, the group reiterated that it remains open to talks with the club’s hierarchy, stressing that constructive engagement is still viewed as the best route towards genuine unity at Celtic.