Celtic Football Club has been rocked by the sudden resignation of its chairman, Peter Lawwell, who has cited "intolerable" levels of personal abuse and threats as the reason for his departure.
A Sudden Exit Amidst Fan Unrest
Peter Lawwell will formally leave his role on 31 December 2025, bringing an abrupt end to a remarkable 21-year association with the club in senior executive roles. He served as chief executive for 18 years before taking on the chairman's role three years ago.
In an emotional statement, Lawwell revealed the profound personal impact of the sustained criticism. "Abuse and threats from some sources have increased and are now intolerable," he said. "They have dismayed and alarmed my family. 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."
Timing Coincides with On-Pitch Struggles
The chairman's decision comes during a period of significant turmoil for the Glasgow giants. The club's performances this season have drawn fierce criticism from supporters, compounded by what many fans perceive as disappointing transfer business during the summer window.
The atmosphere has been further strained by the difficult start for new manager Wilfred Nancy. The Frenchman, who succeeded the departed Brendan Rodgers in October, has lost his first three games in charge. This poor run included a crushing defeat in Sunday’s Premier Sports Cup final against St Mirren at Hampden Park.
Legacy and Immediate Future
Despite the acrimonious end, Lawwell reflected with pride on his tenure. He recalled watching the European Cup parade in 1967 as a schoolboy and highlighted the club's consistent presence in European group-stage football for 19 of the last 21 years.
Current non-executive director Brian Wilson will step in as interim chairman while the club searches for a permanent successor. The board's announcement was made just hours before Nancy led his team to face Dundee United at Tannadice, seeking a desperately needed first win.
Lawwell concluded by stating his intention to move on to a new project, leaving behind a club at a crossroads both in the boardroom and on the pitch.
