Hoops fined £20,000 after ‘illicit banners’

CELTIC have been fined 23,000 euros – around £20k – by UEFA for the display of “illicit banners” which were cited as falling foul a ban on any images of “a political, ideological, religious, offensive or provocative nature”.

The Glasgow club was also punished over “blocked stairways”. However, they were not financially admonished for having a logo displayed on their warm-ups bibs, which is also in breach of the regulations of Europe’s governing body.

Celtic were swift to respond last weekend in the aftermath of the Linfield game in which the banners were displayed. The Parkhead side have suspended the Green Brigade for two games, one game of which – at home to Hearts on the opening day of the season next Saturday - is still to be served.

A statement from UEFA read: “The CEDB has decided to fine Celtic FC €23,000.

“Proceedings with regards to the kit infringement offence by the Scottish club have been closed.”

It takes Celtic’s fines from UEFA since 2011 to £167,500.