(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Celtic’s Title Defence Opener Rescheduled Amid Event Clashes
Celtic’s start to their Scottish Premiership title defence has been delayed and moved to a Monday night due to scheduling conflicts involving major events in Glasgow, the club has confirmed.
The reigning champions were originally expected to begin their season at home against Dundee on a weekend fixture. However, the match has now been rescheduled to Monday, August 3.
The change comes as the city hosts multiple major events during the same period, including Calvin Harris concerts and Commonwealth Games competitions. Authorities cited limited policing availability over the weekend due to the simultaneous events as the reason for the adjustment.
Celtic expressed disappointment over the decision, saying they had been informed that Police Scotland would be unable to support a weekend fixture under the circumstances.
The club’s opening home match of the season is traditionally marked as “Champions Flag Day,” when the league trophy is celebrated with a pre-match ceremony and the championship flag is raised in front of supporters.
In a statement, Celtic said their priority remains the fans, adding that holding such an important occasion on a Monday evening is not ideal. The club also noted that it had made repeated efforts to seek an alternative scheduling arrangement with both Police Scotland and the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL).
Despite the changes, Celtic will begin their title defence later than planned as they prepare for the new season.
