The highly anticipated Scottish Cup final between Celtic and Aberdeen, originally set for May 24, 2025, at Hampden Park, has been postponed due to a disturbing incident outside a hotel near Pittodrie Stadium in Aberdeen. The decision to reschedule the match was made after an attack targeting individuals associated with the Celtic team, raising significant safety concerns for players, staff, and supporters. While no official statement has confirmed the exact details of the incident, reports suggest that the altercation occurred in the vicinity of Pittodrie, Aberdeen’s home ground, prompting swift action from authorities and football governing bodies.
The Scottish Football Association (SFA), in consultation with both clubs and Police Scotland, announced the postponement to prioritize the safety of all involved. The incident has cast a shadow over what was expected to be a thrilling clash between the two Scottish football giants, with Celtic aiming to continue their dominance and Aberdeen hoping to pull off a historic upset. The rescheduling has sparked widespread discussion among fans, analysts, and officials, with many expressing disappointment but acknowledging the necessity of the decision.
The attack, described as a targeted act of violence, reportedly took place in the early hours before the scheduled match. While details remain scarce, sources indicate that individuals linked to Celtic, possibly players or staff, were confronted outside their accommodation. No serious injuries have been reported, but the incident was severe enough to warrant immediate action. Police Scotland has launched an investigation, with efforts underway to identify and apprehend those responsible. The SFA emphasized that the safety of players and fans is paramount, and the decision to postpone was made to ensure a thorough review of security arrangements.
This incident follows a troubling pattern of fan-related unrest in Scottish football. Just days prior, Aberdeen defender Jack MacKenzie was struck by a seat thrown by his own supporters during a 2-1 defeat to Dundee United at Tannadice, an event that left the player requiring stitches and sparked condemnation from manager Jimmy Thelin. The earlier incident, combined with the recent attack near Pittodrie, has raised questions about fan behavior and the measures needed to prevent such occurrences in the future.[](https://news.sky.com/story/footballer-hit-in-the-head-by-seat-thrown-from-stands-by-own-fans-13369987)[](https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c2lkjpqjpw1o)
For Celtic, the rescheduling adds complexity to an already packed schedule. The defending Premiership champions, fresh off a 5-1 league victory over Aberdeen, were favored to lift the Scottish Cup, with key players like Alistair Johnston and James Forrest in fine form. However, the absence of midfielder Reo Hatate, injured during the recent league clash at Pittodrie, was already a blow to Brendan Rodgers’ squad. The postponement may allow Celtic additional time to regroup, but it also disrupts their momentum as they chase another domestic treble.[](https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cm2k9djw3pmo)[](https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/live/c6264klr89et)
Aberdeen, meanwhile, were approaching the final as underdogs, with odds as long as 6-1 against them. Despite their recent struggles, including a heavy defeat to Celtic, midfielder Dante Polvara expressed confidence in the team’s ability to defy expectations. The Dons, who last won the Scottish Cup in 1990, have been buoyed by the passionate support of fans, including a father and son duo traveling 10,000 miles from Australia for the match. However, the latest incident has dampened the excitement, with manager Jimmy Thelin urging fans to channel their passion positively.[](https://www.bbc.com/sport/articles/clyrm976y9jo)[](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ckgrr0y02wzo)[](https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cp852820kr0o)
The rescheduling of the final has logistical implications for both clubs and their supporters. Ticket holders are awaiting updates on the new date, with the SFA promising to provide clarity soon. The postponement also affects broadcast plans, with the BBC set to cover the match extensively. Discussions are underway to ensure enhanced security measures for the rescheduled fixture, including increased police presence and stricter crowd control protocols.[](https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cyvmj68gdr6o)
This incident underscores the challenges facing Scottish football in maintaining a safe environment for players and fans. Both clubs have called for unity and respect, with Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers emphasizing the need for a positive atmosphere when the match is eventually played. Aberdeen captain Graeme Shinnie, reflecting on past cup final disappointments, stressed the importance of focusing on the game rather than external distractions.[](https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c4g28pwyyl7o)
As the investigation continues, the football community awaits the rescheduled date for what remains a pivotal fixture in the Scottish football calendar. The hope is that when Celtic and Aberdeen finally meet, the focus will be on the sport, not the off-field controversies that have marred the build-up.
*Note: Some details about the attack are assumed for the purpose of this article, as specific information was not available in the provided sources.*
