With just one match left in the Scottish Premiership season, all eyes are on Celtic as they prepare for a winner-takes-all showdown against league leaders Hearts on Saturday. A win at Parkhead would secure a fifth consecutive title for Martin O'Neill's side, but the excitement is tempered by growing concerns over fan behavior.
Police Scotland has publicly criticized Celtic for failing to organize an official title celebration, should the club triumph. Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell emphasized that while the force has a comprehensive plan to "minimise disruption to local communities" and prevent "widespread disorder," the lack of club-led planning is troubling. In recent years, unofficial mass gatherings of Celtic fans in Glasgow's Merchant City and Trongate areas have led to anti-social behavior, including street drinking, pyrotechnics, and multiple arrests.
Last season's celebrations resulted in 20 arrests, while the 2024 event saw 19 arrests and four officers injured. As a precaution, authorities have already removed glass from bus stop shelters in key areas. The club has urged supporters to avoid large gatherings, describing them as having a "high impact" on the city.
The contrast with Hearts is striking. If they secure just a single point—their first title since 1960—the Edinburgh club has already planned an open-top bus parade through the city on Sunday. Manager Derek McInnes has called the match "box office," and with kickoff at 12:30, the tension couldn't be higher.
Celtic's path to the title was confirmed after a dramatic 1-0 win over Motherwell on Wednesday, sealed by a controversial VAR-awarded penalty in the 99th minute. Meanwhile, Rangers, who were in contention until a recent loss to Hearts, have been part of discussions with Glasgow City Council to manage fan activity. Traditionally, Celtic fans gather in the Trongate and Merchant City, while Rangers supporters have congregated in George Square.
As the final whistle approaches, the question remains: will Celtic fans celebrate a historic title win safely, or will history repeat itself with chaos on the streets? For now, all focus is on the pitch, where every pass, tackle, and goal will decide the fate of the Scottish Premiership.