Key Highlights
- Celtic fans booed a minute’s silence for Remembrance Sunday during their match against Kilmarnock.
- The home support disrupted the tribute by chanting and turning their backs to the players.
- Referee Don Robertson ended the silence after less than 20 seconds due to crowd disturbance.
- This incident occurred on Remembrance Day, marking one year since a similar disruption at Rugby Park.
Celtic Fans Boo Remembrance Sunday Silence During Match Against Kilmarnock
In a stark contrast to the solemnity of Remembrance Sunday, Celtic fans disrupted a minute’s silence for the occasion during their Scottish Premiership match against Kilmarnock. The incident, which occurred at Celtic Park on November 9, 2025, has reignited discussions about the balance between honoring historical remembrances and maintaining respect in a sporting context.
Disruption at Match Kick-off
The Scottish Premiership clubs observed a minute’s silence before kick-off to commemorate Remembrance Day. However, as both teams stood quietly in the center circle, murmurs from the crowd began to disrupt the moment of respect. According to reports by the Daily Record, boos and chants filled the air while some sections of the home supporters turned their backs.
Referee Don Robertson was faced with an unprecedented challenge when he attempted to initiate the silence before the game.
The disruption escalated quickly, prompting Robertson to end the tribute prematurely after less than 20 seconds. A video captured by BBC Scotland shows the referee halting the proceedings and allowing play to resume.
Previous Incidents and Statements
This incident is not the first time Celtic fans have disrupted a pre-match Remembrance Day silence. The club’s fanbase similarly jeered during such tributes in previous years, most notably away from home at Rugby Park one year ago. On that occasion, the minute’s silence was also cut short as Sky Sports apologized on air for any offense caused.
Speaking to reporters after the match, an unnamed Celtic supporter expressed frustration with the tradition: “Why do we have to stand still and be quiet when there are bigger issues at hand? We’re here to support our team, not some government propaganda.” Meanwhile, a banner from the Celtic away fans read: “From Balfour to Starmer, the crimes of the empire live on, Britain is committing genocide in Gaza.”
Club Response and Future Implications
In response to the incident, North Curve Celtic issued a statement highlighting their stance against selective mourning. They said, “Today, on Armistice Day, we highlight the hypocrisy and shame of the British establishment and others who selectively mourn the loss of life and fail to support an armistice to the ongoing genocide in Palestine.” The club’s approach reflects broader debates within the football community about how to balance respect for historical remembrances with the need to address current social issues.
The incident also raises questions about the role of referees in managing such disruptions during matches. Referee Don Robertson, while fulfilling his duty to ensure fair play, faced a challenging situation that could impact future tributes at Celtic Park.
Experts suggest that clubs and governing bodies may need to consider more inclusive approaches to remembrances that acknowledge diverse perspectives within their fanbases.
As discussions continue around the balance between honoring historical remembrances and maintaining respect in a sporting context, this incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved. For now, the focus remains on understanding how clubs can create environments where all fans feel included during such solemn occasions.
