A 34-year-old Celtic supporter has been taken to hospital after being attacked in Belgrade ahead of the club’s Europa League match against Red Star.
Local reports [Telegraf] state that a group of hooligans targeted foreign fans wearing Celtic shirts at several cafés on Zmaj Jovina Street, in the centre of the Serbian capital. The supporter required medical attention following the incident and was transferred to hospital.
Celtic had earlier issued safety guidance to travelling fans, stressing that colours should not be worn in the city. Supporters were also advised to use official transport arranged by the club to reach the Stadion Rajko Mitić.
According to the club, the designated meeting point on matchday is Student Square (Studentski trg). From there, buses have been organised to take Celtic fans to the ground, with a return service back into the city centre after the game.
In an update to travel arrangements, Celtic said that the original plan for shuttle services had been changed. All visiting supporters are required to be inside the stadium before home fans arrive. Following the match, Celtic fans will be held back for at least 45 minutes before being transported back by bus.
The incident in Belgrade comes with tensions surrounding European fixtures in the city, where police and UEFA regularly highlight security risks for visiting supporters.
Celtic are due to face Red Star on Wednesday evening in their first Europa League group stage fixture.
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