Celtic won’t be given an allocation of tickets for tomorrow’s Europa League tie against Ferencvaros.
With Britain outside of the European Union it always seemed unlikely that fans would be given tickets for the match with that news confirmed this morning.
There are very few restrictions on travel to Hungary but individual events have their own regulations with a football match having its own protocols.
Shortly after 11am this morning Celtic announced:
Further to discussions with Ferencvaros late last night and early this morning, regrettably we have to update that we have been informed that there will be no access for Celtic supporters for Thursday’s match in Budapest.
We have been informed by Ferencvaros that, given the timescales involved, it is not possible for them and the Hungarian authorities to meet all necessary requirements around the UK vaccine certification approval process before entry can be permitted to the stadium.
We have been informed that a national framework for UK vaccine certification approval in Hungary is required and that this cannot be fulfilled in time for access to be arranged for the match.
Celtic has worked closely with Ferencvaros to try and establish a positive solution for our fans, but unfortunately this has not been possible in the time available prior to the match.
This is unfortunately a consequence of the pandemic. Both clubs have done everything they can to try to find an alternative outcome and, of course, we understand how frustrating this will be for our fans. We would like to thank Ferencvaros for all their efforts in trying to accommodate Celtic supporters.
Hundreds of Celtic fans already have travel plans in place, after 21 months without a European away trip there are worst things than a midweek visit to Budapest. The ticket decision also hits fans in Ireland and continental Europe whi have the European Vaccine Passport.
Ange Postecoglou and his squad fly to the Hungarian capital today without the injured Tom Rogic and Carl Starfelt who have started each of Celtic’s three group stage matches in the Europa League so far.
After beating Ferencvaros 2-0 at home Celtic will be looking for a win in Hungary but it looks like they will also have to take points from their remaining two matches to remain in the Europa League. A win on Thursday would guarantee third place and a place in the UEFA Conference in the new year.
Timescales???? The fixtures have been out for over a month.