Peter Lawwell Steps Away from Celtic After Citing Abuse and Threats
So, there’s been a major development at Celtic, and it’s one that has sent shockwaves through the club and its supporters. Peter Lawwell, one of the most influential figures in Celtic’s modern history, has announced that he will step down as chairman at the end of December. The reason he has given is deeply troubling: ongoing abuse and threats that he says have become intolerable, not just for him, but for his family as well.
Lawwell’s departure comes at a really turbulent time for the club. On the pitch, things have not gone to plan this season. Celtic exited the Champions League earlier than hoped, the summer transfer window left many fans frustrated, and the team currently finds itself behind Heart of Midlothian in the Scottish Premiership. On top of that, new manager Wilfried Nancy has endured a nightmare start, losing his first three games since taking over from Brendan Rodgers, who resigned in October. Fan anger has been growing, and protests aimed at the board have become a regular feature.
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Against that backdrop, Lawwell explained that while he has faced many challenges during his long career, the current situation crossed a line. It was said that the abuse and threats directed at him had escalated to a level he could no longer accept. He spoke openly about the impact this has had on his family, saying they were alarmed and distressed, and made it clear that at this stage of his life, he did not need to endure that kind of pressure. With sadness, he chose to walk away from the club he has supported since childhood.
This is not a small exit. Lawwell first joined Celtic as chief executive back in 2003 and held that role for 18 years before returning as chairman three years ago. During his time at the club, Celtic enjoyed extraordinary domestic success, collecting 38 league titles and cup triumphs. Under his leadership, the club became a regular presence in European competition, missing out on the Champions League group stages only twice in more than two decades. Major infrastructure projects were also delivered, including the Lennoxtown training centre, redevelopment work at Barrowfield, and upgrades to Celtic Park.
In his farewell words, Lawwell reflected emotionally on his journey, from watching the European Cup paraded as a schoolboy in 1967 to overseeing some unforgettable European nights at Paradise. While acknowledging the highs and lows, he said he leaves with gratitude and pride.
Tributes quickly followed. Principal shareholder Dermot Desmond praised Lawwell’s immense contribution and said his decision was fully understood and respected. Chief executive Michael Nicholson also described it as a sad day for Celtic, while strongly condemning the abuse and threats as completely unacceptable.
For now, non-executive director Brian Wilson will step in as interim chairman while Celtic searches for a permanent replacement. But there’s no doubt that Lawwell’s departure marks the end of a significant era in the club’s history.
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