Celtic have confirmed that a supporter has died after falling ill during the club's Champions League qualifying victory over LASK on Wednesday night at Celtic Park.
In a statement released on Thursday evening, the Scottish champions expressed their sorrow at the news, saying: "It is with real sadness that we confirm that one of our supporters has passed away after becoming ill during last night's match at Celtic Park. Despite the efforts of medical staff, tragically, he died later in hospital."
The club went on to thank those who assisted during the incident, adding: "We thank the emergency services and fellow supporters within the stadium for all their efforts in dealing with this tragic incident. We extend our deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers to the family and we will ensure that we offer them our full support at this extremely difficult time."
Police Scotland also issued a statement outlining the circumstances of the tragedy. A spokesperson said: "Around 9.05pm on Wednesday, 19 August, 2026, police received a report of a man having taken unwell within Celtic Park, Glasgow. Emergency services attended and a 65-year-old man was conveyed to Glasgow Royal Infirmary, where he died a short time later."
The force confirmed that the death is not being treated as suspicious.
The tragic news overshadowed what had otherwise been a triumphant night for Celtic on the pitch, as they moved a significant step closer to reaching the league phase of the Champions League with a commanding 3-0 win over Austrian side LASK in the first leg of their qualifying tie.
Benjamin Nygren gave the home side the lead before Camilo Duran struck twice, either side of half-time, to seal a dominant scoreline that leaves Celtic in a strong position ahead of the return fixture in Austria next Tuesday.
The victory continued what has been an impressive start to the season for the Glasgow club, who remain unbeaten across all competitions after four matches. Celtic opened their domestic campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over Dundee before following it up with a resounding 5-1 away victory against Kilmarnock.
That win at Rugby Park came with manager Martin O'Neill absent from the touchline, as he was recovering from what was described as a "small procedure" that required a short spell in hospital earlier in the week. Celtic have since continued their winning form, beating Dundee United 4-0 in the second round of the Scottish League Cup before their emphatic European result against LASK.
Despite the club's strong momentum on the field, Thursday's announcement served as a somber reminder of the human cost that can accompany even routine matchday events. Celtic's focus now turns to both supporting the bereaved family and preparing for next week's second leg in Austria, where they will aim to complete the job and secure their place in the Champions League league phase.
Based on reporting from The Independent.