Celtic fans enjoying a beer in Dortmund
ans of Celtic show their support in the stands prior to the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Borussia Dortmund and Celtic FC at BVB Stadion Dortmund on October 01, 2024. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

Alcohol restrictions in Bergamo won’t spoil the Celtic party

Celtic supporters travelling to Bergamo for tomorrow’s highly anticipated Champions League match against Atalanta are facing an unexpected refreshments hurdle

Celtic supporters in Dortmund
Fans of Celtic show their support in the stands prior to the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Borussia Dortmund and Celtic FC at BVB Stadion Dortmund on October 01, 2024. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

 

Local authorities have imposed strict alcohol regulations aimed at maintaining public order and protecting the city’s artistic heritage. This decision comes as the Hoops prepare to bounce back from a dreadful 7-1 defeat to Borussia Dortmund in their previous group match.

Restrictions in Place

The Municipality of Bergamo issued a public notice detailing the restrictions, which will take effect tomorrow at 9 a.m. Italian time and remain in place until 6 a.m. the following morning.

Under these regulations, establishments serving food and drinks are prohibited from offering alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content higher than five per cent.

Furthermore, drinks will not be served in glasses or similar containers, meaning that fans may need to adjust their expectations for pre-match refreshments.

Brendan Rodgers
Celtic v Aberdeen –  Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers applauds the fans after the final whistle in the Scottish Premiership match at Celtic Park on Saturday October 19, 2024. Photo Jane Barlow

As explained by the Glasgow Times, the notice specified: “To safeguard public order and safety and to protect the city’s artistic heritage, it is prohibited for establishments serving drinks and food, private clubs, and commercial activities in public areas, the serving inside and sale for takeaway of alcoholic drinks with a content higher than five per cent.”

While restaurants may serve alcoholic beverages, this can only occur alongside food and must be consumed on the premises.

Fans Remain Optimistic

Despite the frustrating regulations, the mood among Celtic fans remains buoyant.

The club has been allocated 1,300 away tickets for the match, and while supporters may not be able to enjoy their usual pre-game pints, many are determined to make the most of the experience.

As one fan put it, “We might not be confident about the result, but it’s always a great time following the Bhoys abroad.”

Celtic supporters in Dortmund
UEFA Champions League Borussia Dortmund Celtic Glasgow 01 10 2024 Fans of Celtic Glasgow with the choreo at the start of the match, flags UEFA Champions League Borussia Dortmund Celtic Glasgow Signal Iduna Park, Dortmund 01 10 2024. Photo BEAUTIFUL SPORTS/Buriakov

Atalanta, currently in formidable form with three consecutive wins, presents a significant challenge for Celtic.

However, the travelling Celtic fans’ unwavering spirit and camaraderie will likely shine through, regardless of the match outcome or any futile attempts to stop them having a beverage.

As the Bhoys prepare to take on Gian Piero Gasperini’s side, all eyes will be on Bergamo. Not just for the football, but for the resilience and passion of the incredible Celtic support. And as always they will cause no bother at all.

Cameron Carter-Vickers
Celtic v Hearts – Lawrence Shankland tries to hold off Cameron Carter-Vickers and Callum McGregor during the Scottish Premiership match at Celtic Park, on 14 September 2024. Photo Malcolm Mackenzie/PSI

Celtic went to Rome in 2019 to take on Lazio and no-one gave us much of a chance.  Strange things occasionally happen in football.  And CCV looks like starting so there’s just a little hope.

COYBIG!

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