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The Journos · 2 November 2023
Celtic have banned the fan group Green Brigade after Palestine support. But does Celtic need the Green Brigade for the atmosphere at matches home and away?
Also on The Journos: Saudi Arabia World Cup 2034 - what about human rights violations; is it the end of the Green Brigade at Celtic; why Celtic FC banned the Green Brigade over Palestine flags; are youth academies producing enough talented youth players?; worst football tops ever and much more!
The Journos Highlights:
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:40 Saudi Arabia World Cup 2034
00:08:42 Saudi Pro League attendance
00:11:37 Saudi Arabia World Cup stadiums
00:14:14 Saudi Arabia human rights
00:23:30 Celtic FC supporting Palestine
00:30:07 Celtic Green Brigade banned
00:39:45 Celtic Park atmosphere
00:44:05 Football youth academy
00:48:08 Celtic and Rangers youth development
00:53:14 Scottish football academy
00:56:11 Worst football tops of all time
The Green Brigade: A Deep Dive into Celtic F.C.'s Ultra Group
The Green Brigade, established in 2006, represents a passionate subsection of Celtic F.C. supporters known for their fervent dedication to the club. Situated in the North Curve corner of Celtic Park, the group has been a prominent fixture at the club's matches, bringing an energetic atmosphere but not without controversy.
Controversies and Noteworthy Incidents:
Dundee United Clash (2010): During a match against Dundee United, significant disorder erupted within the Green Brigade's section, leading to violent confrontations with security personnel. A coin, allegedly thrown by a fan, left a security guard with a bloody lip.
Scottish Cup Semi-final (2011): A flare set off by a supporter during the semi-final against Aberdeen led to police involvement. Attempts to remove the supporter were unsuccessful due to other fans' intervention, and subsequently, over 100 Green Brigade members exited the stadium in protest.
Season Ticket Renewal Dispute (2011): The club's decision to disperse Green Brigade members around the stadium saw many members not receiving their season ticket renewal forms.
Political Chants: UEFA's head of communications, William Gaillard, addressed the Green Brigade's IRA chants in 2006, distinguishing between sectarianism and nationalism. However, former Celtic managers have expressed concerns about these chants tarnishing the club's reputation.
Banner against Douglas Ross (2023): A provocative banner targeting Douglas Ross, an assistant referee and political figure, drew significant attention during a match against St. Mirren F.C.
Poppy Protest (2010): The Green Brigade protested against the remembrance poppy featured on Celtic's shirts, pointing to controversies surrounding the Armed Forces. Their stance was both criticized and praised in the media.
Support for Social Causes: The Green Brigade has shown active support for movements like Black Lives Matter, renaming streets in Glasgow in honour of black civil rights leaders, and displayed their solidarity with Palestinian causes on multiple occasions.
Conflict with UEFA: Celtic has faced numerous fines from UEFA due to the Green Brigade's actions, especially those that breach UEFA's guidelines on political messages. The most notable instances involved banners featuring Bobby Sands, an IRA hunger striker, and another featuring a "paramilitary-style" figure alongside Celtic's manager.
Issues with Celtic Management: Following vandalism at Fir Park in 2013, Celtic aimed to disband the Green Brigade, leading to suspensions and relocations of several fans.
Fans Against Criminalisation Protests: The Green Brigade actively protested against the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications (Scotland) Act 2012, which was later repealed in 2018.
Positive Contributions:
Neil Lennon's Appreciation: The former Celtic manager has shown appreciation for the Green Brigade's unwavering support, crediting them with significantly enhancing the matchday atmosphere.
125th Anniversary Display: To mark Celtic's 125th anniversary in 2012, the Green Brigade organized a full-stadium pre-match display against Barcelona, receiving accolades from the club's chairman.
In summary, the Green Brigade's history with Celtic F.C. is multi-faceted, intertwining passionate support with controversies. While their actions have often been contentious, their dedication to Celtic F.C. and various social causes cannot be understated.
Thanks for watching The Journos discuss if Celtic needs the Green Brigade for the atmosphere at Celtic Park.
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