Northern Irish support Celtic largely due to deep-seated historical, cultural, and religious connections that link the club to the Irish diaspora and a particular segment of the community in Northern Ireland.
Historical Roots and Irish Identity
Celtic Football Club was founded in 1887 in Glasgow by an Irishman, Brother Walfrid (born Andrew Kerins in Ballymote, County Sligo). His primary objective was to establish a football club whose proceeds would help alleviate poverty among the Irish immigrant population living in the East End of Glasgow. The choice of the name "Celtic" was deliberate, intended to reflect the shared cultural heritage and combined Irish and Scottish identity that the club sought to represent.
This foundation created an immediate bond with the Irish community, many of whom had emigrated to Scotland seeking work, often fleeing hardship. For these immigrants and their descendants, Celtic became more than just a football club; it was a symbol of their heritage, a source of pride, and a focal point for community gathering in a new land.
Cultural and Political Alignment
In Northern Ireland, the support for Celtic is predominantly found within the Catholic, Nationalist, and Republican communities. This alignment stems from shared historical narratives, a sense of collective identity, and political aspirations. For many in these communities, Celtic represents:
- Irish Heritage: The club's strong historical ties to Ireland and its founders resonate deeply with those who identify as Irish.
- Catholic Identity: While Celtic is not exclusively a Catholic club today, its origins and historical fan base are heavily linked to the Catholic community, offering a sense of representation and belonging in a society often marked by sectarian divisions.
- Nationalist/Republican Sympathies: The club's symbols, songs, and historical connections often evoke a sense of Irish nationalism or republicanism, appealing to those who support a united Ireland or identify with republican ideals. This is often expressed through flags, chants, and cultural references at matches.
The Old Firm Divide
The support for Celtic in Northern Ireland cannot be fully understood without acknowledging the intense rivalry with Rangers Football Club. This rivalry, known as the "Old Firm," extends beyond football to encompass a complex interplay of religious, political, and cultural identities, especially relevant in Northern Ireland.
| Club | Primary Association (Northern Ireland Context) | General Identity |
|---|---|---|
| Celtic | Catholic, Nationalist, Republican | Irish heritage, Scottish-Irish connection |
| Rangers | Protestant, Unionist, Loyalist | Scottish heritage, British identity, Ulster-Scots links |
This sectarian dimension means that choosing to support one club often implicitly signifies an affiliation with a particular side of the political and cultural divide in Northern Ireland. For many, supporting Celtic is a clear statement of their Irish, Catholic, and Nationalist identity.
Community and Family Ties
Support for Celtic is often passed down through generations within families and communities in Northern Ireland. Going to matches, wearing the club colours, and celebrating victories become integral parts of social and family life. This generational loyalty reinforces the connection, creating a strong sense of tradition and shared identity among supporters. Many Northern Irish fans frequently travel to Glasgow to attend Celtic games, further strengthening the bond and participation in the club's wider community.
Key Reasons Summarized
The primary reasons Northern Irish people support Celtic include:
- Historical Foundation: The club's establishment by an Irishman to aid the Irish immigrant population in Glasgow.
- Cultural Identity: A strong sense of shared Irish heritage and connection.
- Religious Alignment: Predominantly supported by the Catholic community.
- Political Sympathies: Resonating with Nationalist and Republican sentiments.
- Old Firm Rivalry: A clear demarcation of identity within the context of the Northern Irish sectarian divide.
- Familial and Community Tradition: Loyalty passed down through generations.
