Kris Boyd Unfazed by Celtic Stadium Ban After Controversial Remarks
Kris Boyd, the former Rangers striker and current Sky Sports pundit, has been banned from Celtic Park following what the club described as “unprecedented actions” stemming from his recent comments. The 41-year-old, known for his outspoken views, responded defiantly, stating he stands by his words and is unbothered by the ban.
The controversy erupted after Boyd’s remarks on Sky Sports, where he criticized Celtic’s decision to limit away fan allocations for Old Firm matches, calling it a move that “spoils the game.” Celtic, citing safety concerns and reciprocal arrangements with Rangers, deemed Boyd’s comments inflammatory, accusing him of inciting unrest among fans. The club issued a statement confirming that Boyd would no longer be permitted at Celtic Park for media duties, a decision they described as necessary to maintain a safe environment.
Boyd, however, was quick to dismiss the ban, shrugging it off with characteristic bluntness. “I said what I said, and I don’t care,” he told Sky Sports. “I’m here to give my opinion, and I won’t shy away from it. If Celtic don’t want me there, that’s their call.” The former Scotland international, who scored 127 goals for Rangers, emphasized that his role as a pundit is to spark discussion, not to appease clubs or fans.
The ban has ignited debate across Scottish football. Some Celtic supporters argue Boyd’s comments were irresponsible, potentially stoking tensions ahead of high-stakes derbies. Others, including Rangers fans and neutral observers, view the ban as an overreach, accusing Celtic of stifling free speech. Social media posts on X reflect the divide, with one user stating, “Boyd’s just saying what many think—Celtic’s ban is petty,” while another countered, “He knew what he was doing. Words have consequences.”
This isn’t Boyd’s first brush with controversy. His forthright style has often polarized fans, but his unapologetic stance has cemented his reputation as one of Scottish football’s most candid voices. As the Old Firm rivalry continues to simmer, Boyd’s exclusion from Celtic Park adds another layer of tension to an already fiery fixture.
Celtic has not clarified the duration of the ban, and Sky Sports has yet to comment on how it will affect Boyd’s coverage. For now, Boyd remains defiant, vowing to continue calling it as he sees it.
