Celtic shock as chair Peter Lawwell quits after ‘intolerable abuse’

DUBLIN: Celtic FC chairman Peter Lawwell announced on Wednesday that he will step down from his role, citing “abuse and threats from some sources” which he described as “intolerable.”

Celtic chief executive Michael Nicholson said the decision marked “a sad day for Celtic,” adding that the abuse and threats directed at Lawwell, and their impact on his family, were “completely unacceptable.”

In a statement, Lawwell said: “It is with sadness that I announce my decision to stand down as chair of Celtic FC.” The club confirmed that the board of Celtic plc will take effect from 31 December 2025.

Lawwell also announced that Celtic non-executive director Brian Wilson will assume the role of interim chair until a permanent appointment is made.

His decision comes amid sustained criticism of Celtic’s executive leadership from sections of Scottish and international football supporters.

Reflecting on his tenure, Lawwell said: “I believe that my 18 years as chief executive and three years as chairman at the club have shown my ability to meet and overcome challenges on many fronts. But abuse and threats from some sources have increased and are now intolerable.

“They have dismayed and alarmed my family. At this stage in my life, I don’t need this. I cannot accept it, and so I leave the club I have loved all my life. I prefer to look back on my career at Celtic with deep gratitude and satisfaction.”