AGM Abandoned After Heated Fan Protests
Celtic’s annual general meeting was abruptly abandoned after intense protests, with shareholders loudly chanting “sack the board” and jeering director Ross Desmond for accusing a section of supporters of being “bullies.”
The meeting at Celtic Park was first paused within minutes, then fully shut down after Desmond’s statement triggered more unrest. In his remarks, he defended his father Dermot Desmond, calling him a “lifelong and passionate supporter,” and insisted the board would not be “bullied by aggressive and irrational criticism.”
Celtic later issued a statement saying the disruption was “completely unacceptable” and regretted that shareholders were denied a proper discussion.
Fan Frustration Over Transfers & Club Direction
Supporters have criticised the board for what they see as poor summer transfer dealings and the club’s failure to reach the Champions League. Celtic also trail Hearts by seven points in the league, adding to the unrest.
Interim manager Martin O’Neill called it “as sad a morning as I’ve seen,” expressing hope that the club could repair the “disconnect” once a permanent manager arrives.
Videos highlighting the club’s financial record and spending were shown, but many fans walked out before returning for the Q&A—only for the meeting to collapse entirely as Desmond spoke.
Despite the chaos, the board defended their decisions, pointing to record transfer spending and strong financial reserves. O’Neill urged unity, saying success can only return when the club stands together.
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