Full Breakdown
Celtic’s Largest Shareholder Targeted in Protest at St Andrews Golf Tournament
By Drooid · · How we work
Protest at the Alfred Dunhill Links
On October 3, 2026, Dermot Desmond – the 76-year-old Irish businessman who is Celtic Football Club’s largest individual shareholder – was escorted off the Old Course at St Andrews after supporters of the Celtic Fans Collective lobbed tennis balls onto the 15th-hole green during the pro-am event. The balls bore images of Desmond’s face crossed out, and security intervened to remove him from the course.
Background and Fan Discontent
Desmond’s ownership has drawn criticism from sections of the Celtic fanbase for perceived under-achievement on the pitch and a transfer policy that has not delivered European progress. At Celtic’s annual general meeting last November, fan unrest forced the meeting to be abandoned, and Desmond’s son Ross read a defensive statement on his father’s behalf.
Official Statements & Responses
The Celtic Fans Collective’s statement called for change at the top of the club, directly targeting Desmond and the club’s board. Police Scotland confirmed that officers were present on the course and that no injuries were reported. Their spokesperson noted a noticeable police presence near the 18th hole as Desmond, accompanied by a personal security guard, completed his round in a buggy.
Current Club Context
Celtic, managed by Martin O’Neill, currently sit top of the Scottish Premiership, two points ahead of Rangers, after claiming the league title and a domestic double last season. However, the team entered the international break on a three-game losing streak, including two defeats to Rangers and a 3-1 loss to Ferencváros in their opening Europa League match. The protest underscores mounting pressure on Desmond and the club’s leadership as supporters demand greater accountability.