Celtic’s dominant form on the pitch has established them as the leading team in the Premiership, but their fans’ use of pyrotechnics in the stands has sparked a heated debate within the football community. The SPFL recently charged both Celtic and their rivals Rangers, as well as Motherwell, for the irresponsible use of pyros during the League Cup semi-finals. This controversy stemmed from the visibility issues caused by the smoke from flares, which led to a delayed kick-off and raised concerns about the safety of fans.
The upcoming League Cup final between Celtic and Rangers at Hampden is anticipated to reignite the debate over pyrotechnics. While BBC reporter Tom English has voiced strong opposition to the use of pyros, citing safety risks, Michael Stewart has argued in favor of their use in a controlled environment to enhance the matchday atmosphere.
In response to the ongoing debate, Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety of both fans and players. He expressed concerns about the potential risks associated with pyrotechnics, highlighting the possibility of injury and disruption to pre-match preparation.
As fans continue to advocate for the use of pyros despite regulations and safety concerns, the debate over their place in football grounds is expected to persist. The clash between tradition and safety regulations in modern football culture remains a point of contention within the sport.
