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Celtic's title defense opener delayed to Monday due to events

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 12:29 PM

Last updated Jun 18, 2026

Celtic's title defense opener delayed to Monday due to events

Summary

Celtic will start its Scottish Premiership title defense on Monday night, August 3, against Dundee, a decision the club termed 'disappointing.' The scheduling change results from concurrent events, including Calvin Harris concerts and the Commonwealth Games, which restrict Police Scotland's support for weekend matches. Celtic expressed frustration over the lack of options that would better accommodate supporters for what they typically celebrate as 'Champions Flag Day.' The club stated they consistently advocated for a weekend match date.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Celtic's season opener rescheduled to Monday, August 3.
•The match was moved due to Police Scotland's commitments.
•Celtic expressed disappointment over the change.
•Dundee will be the opponent for Celtic's title defense opener.
•The club emphasized the importance of weekend fixtures for supporters.

Latest Updates

12:29 PMYahoo Sports — Celtic unhappy as title defense start pushed back due to concerts and Commonwealth Games

What they're saying

"
A combination of Calvin Harris concerts and Commonwealth Games events are forcing Celtic to play the opening game of its Scottish Premiership title defense on a Monday night, a situation the club has described as “disappointing.” Instead of being played on the previous Saturday or Sunday, Celtic's home meeting with Dundee has been pushed back to Monday Aug. 3. “We have been told that there is no choice owing to Police Scotland being unable to support the fixture on a weekend which coincides with other events,” Celtic said.
— Yahoo Sports

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