SPFL chief operating officer Calum Beattie has responded after Celtic criticised the scheduling of their Premiership opener. The reigning champions will begin their title defence at home to Dundee on Monday, August 3, under the lights at Parkhead.
Fixture Conflict with Commonwealth Games
The decision was made due to Commonwealth Games events taking place at the Sir Chris Hoy velodrome on the weekend of August 1-2, right across from Celtic Park. Additionally, Police Scotland and stewarding resources are stretched by two sold-out Calvin Harris concerts at Hampden on that Saturday and Sunday.
Celtic had questioned the lack of planning to accommodate their flag day ceremony on the same weekend. However, Beattie, involved in compiling the fixture list, explained the reasoning after discussions with all parties.
In a Q&A, Beattie stated: "The event is not on the same scale as 2014 when both Hampden and Celtic Park were venues, so the impact on SPFL fixtures is more limited. However, the closing weekend of the 2026 Commonwealth Games coincides with our opening weekend, with events at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome. As a result, and following discussions with Police Scotland, Celtic's opening game against Dundee will be played on Monday, August 3, live on Sky Sports at 7.30pm."
Celtic's Response
Celtic revealed they successfully fought for the kick-off time to be brought forward from 8pm to 7.30pm to help travelling fans, especially from Ireland, with transport connections. In a statement, the club expressed disappointment: "Clearly, our priority will always be our supporters and, against any measure, staging the Champions Flag Day on a Monday evening is disappointing. We have made repeated representations to Police Scotland and the SPFL to avoid this scheduling, but we have been told there is no choice. Through positive dialogue, the kick-off has been moved forward, which is significant for travel connections. While it will never detract from the team's achievement, we feel a weekend timing should have been facilitated."
Despite the circumstances, Celtic vowed to ensure a special day for fans as they celebrate their fifth consecutive Premiership title.
