July 29 – Celtic are to be investigated by UEFA after supporters set off fireworks during last week’s Champions League qualifier against Northern Irish club Cliftonville.
Europe’s ruling body confirmed that the Scottish champions have to answer a charge of breaching articles 16.2 of UEFA’s disciplinary regulations and that the case will be discussed on Aug 22.
Neil Lennon’s side won the match 2-0 to secure a 5-0 aggregate scoreline and set up a third qualifying round tie with Elfsborg of Sweden.
Article 16.2 states that “all associations and clubs are liable for… inappropriate behaviour on the part of their supporters and may be subject to disciplinary measures and directives even if they can prove the absence of any negligence in relation to the organisation of the match” relating to, among other things, the “lighting of fireworks or any other objects”.
Celtic warned supporters that a section of their Celtic Park ground could now be closed. A statement read: “The directors and board of Celtic Football Club are responsible for the safety of all supporters, and this is their primary objective. For some time the club has been under close scrutiny by the Glasgow City Council Safety Advisory Group with regard to serious safety concerns within Section 111. The club is keen to work with spectators in Section 111 to resolve safety concerns. However, it should be understood that failure to stop this unsafe behaviour will require the closure of this area in Celtic Park.”
Celtic were fined £21,000 by UEFA following a Europa League game against Udinese in Italy in December 2011. On that occasion, the club were charged with “the displaying of a banner of an offensive nature and the setting off of fireworks by supporters”.
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