Celtic supporters plan to defy club's orders by displaying Palestinian flags

Celtic fans' group, the Green Brigade, plans to distribute Palestinian flags at Celtic Park despite the club's condemnation. The flags will be handed out to supporters before Wednesday's Champions League tie with Atletico Madrid. The group has already been banned from away games for displaying the flags at previous matches in response to attacks in Israel and Gaza. The club is expected to receive a fine if the display goes ahead. Celtic has asked that banners, flags, and symbols related to the Israel-Hamas conflict not be displayed at the stadium. The Green Brigade believes that football supporters have the right to express political beliefs. They will distribute thousands of flags outside the stadium, although they are prohibited from bringing them inside. Celtic has distanced itself from the banners and has expressed support for player Liel Abada, who is Israeli. The club hopes for peace and humanitarian support for those affected by the conflict. Celtic recognizes that fans hold personal views but asks that symbols of the conflict not be displayed. The ongoing dispute reflects supporters' desire to express their solidarity with Palestine. Uefa and Fifa prohibit the mixing of politics and football, and sponsors seek to avoid controversy. However, fans determined to convey their message refuse to be silenced. Caught in the middle are those who want to focus solely on the football during matches. Celtic fans have a long-standing affiliation with the Palestinian cause and have displayed the national flag multiple times. The Green Brigade displayed the flag during a Champions League qualifier against an Israeli side in 2016, resulting in a fine for the club. Celtic has also been fined for offensive banners. Other Scottish clubs, including Rangers and Hearts, have also faced fines for fan misconduct.