SPFL launches investigations into Celtic matches and play-offs
The SPFL has opened disciplinary proceedings following pitch incursions during Celtic's final league games and two lower-league play-off fixtures.
Photo: bbc.sport
The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) has announced disciplinary investigations into four matches played at the end of the season. The probe focuses on two Celtic Premiership fixtures — away to Motherwell on 13 May and home to Hearts on 16 May — following reports of pitch incursions by spectators.
Conduct is also being reviewed concerning two lower-league play-off matches: the second-leg win for Hamilton Academical against Clyde on 15 May, and Stenhousemuir's play-off defeat to Alloa Athletic on 16 May. Both games saw fans enter the pitch after the final whistle.
The league is reviewing these incidents under SPFL Rules H36 and H37, which mandate that home clubs must maintain order and security, and effectively address unacceptable conduct. This comes after the SPFL concluded 11 disciplinary processes against eight clubs for similar issues, such as pyrotechnics and mass pitch encroachments, during the 2025-26 season.
Regarding the Celtic versus Hearts game, manager Martin O'Neill addressed allegations that Hearts players were assaulted, stating that the claims "have not been proved." Police Scotland are currently investigating whether any criminal conduct occurred during the pitch invasion.