Peter Lawwell announces departure as Celtic chairman
Peter Lawwell has revealed his decision to step down as chairman of Celtic, citing escalating abuse and threats that have become “intolerable” and left his family “dismayed and alarmed,” reports BritPanorama.
The 66-year-old will officially leave his position at the end of this month, with non-executive director Brian Wilson taking over as interim chairman from 31 December until a permanent successor is appointed.
“At this stage in my life, I don’t need this. I cannot accept this and so I leave the club I have loved all my life,” Lawwell stated on the club’s website.
This resignation comes at a challenging time for the Scottish champions, who have faced ongoing supporter protests following a disappointing summer transfer window and elimination from the Champions League. Currently, Celtic find themselves trailing Heart of Midlothian in the Scottish Premiership table, a stark contrast to their usual dominance.
Wilfried Nancy, who succeeded Brendan Rodgers after his resignation in October, has experienced a difficult start to his managerial tenure, losing all three matches since taking charge. This includes a recent defeat in the Premier Sports Cup final against St Mirren. Nancy’s next challenge is a crucial fixture against Dundee United.
Reflecting on his two decades with Celtic, Lawwell expressed pride in the club’s achievements, recalling his childhood memories of witnessing the European Cup victory in 1967. “I have subsequently watched some great European nights at Paradise and am proud that the club has played group-stage football in all but two of the last 21 years while also enjoying domestic dominance,” he noted.
He also highlighted the impact of the Celtic FC Foundation, reinforcing the sentiment that the club is “more than a football club.” In his farewell, Lawwell extended gratitude to colleagues, coaches, and players who contributed to what he described as “this era of remarkable and historic success.”
Principal shareholder Dermot Desmond expressed personal sadness at Lawwell’s departure while recognizing the reasons behind it. “I understand and respect his decision in light of recent events and what he has endured,” Desmond remarked, recalling the 38 cup or title triumphs achieved during Lawwell’s tenure.
Chief executive Michael Nicholson called it “a sad day for Celtic,” denouncing the abuse and threats directed at Lawwell and his family as “completely unacceptable.”
As Celtic navigates this period of upheaval, Lawwell’s departure serves as a poignant reminder of the pressures faced by those at the helm of clubs steeped in tradition and expectation.
