TRNSMT got underway on Friday as thousands of music fans descended on Glasgow Green despite the typically Scottish summer weather.
Rain did little to dampen spirits as the three-day festival kicked off with former Verve frontman Richard Ashcroft headlining the opening night.
The weekend still has plenty to come, with Kasabian and Lewis Capaldi set to top the bill over the next two evenings.
Capaldi’s return is particularly anticipated, with the Scottish singer making his long-awaited comeback to the festival scene.
But it was Ashcroft who provided the first Celtic-related moment of the weekend.
Before launching into one of his songs, the 54-year-old took time to recognise some of football’s most influential figures, including Celtic’s greatest-ever manager.
Addressing the crowd, Ashcroft said:
“Saw a beautiful documentary the other night. This one’s for Jock Stein, Sir Matt Busby and Bill Shankly.
“Scotland’s given so much to f***** football so we appreciate you.”
Richard Ashcroft dedicates song to Scottish football heroes at TRNSMT pic.twitter.com/1rVVbVuNWk
— The Scottish Sun (@ScottishSun) June 19, 2026
The tribute was warmly received by the Glasgow crowd.
Jock Stein’s place in football history requires little explanation.
The legendary Celtic manager guided the club to European Cup glory in 1967, becoming the first British side to lift the trophy and creating one of the most iconic teams the game has ever seen.
Nearly six decades on, his influence continues to be recognised far beyond Scottish football.
It was an unexpected but welcome nod to one of Celtic’s most important figures.
With two more days of TRNSMT still to come, supporters will be keeping an eye out for any further football references.
And with Lewis Capaldi still to take the stage on Sunday, nobody would be surprised if Celtic get another mention before the weekend is over.
For now, though, the first football tribute of TRNSMT 2026 belongs to Richard Ashcroft – and to the man he described as worthy of dedicating a song to.
Jock Stein.
