You may not have been on social media at the time but, Dermot Desmond, Celtic’s majority shareholder, made a rare and unforgettable appearance among the club’s fans in 2013. The Irish billionaire was spotted at the Shamrock Bar in Turin, Italy, mingling with supporters the night before Celtic’s Champions League last 16-second leg tie against Juventus.
Desmond, known for his reticence and limited public engagement with fans, took everyone by surprise when he decided to join the Celtic faithful gathered in the bar. In a gesture that has become part of Celtic folklore, Desmond reportedly began handing out €50 notes to fans, enabling them to buy drinks on him.
However, Desmond’s time among the supporters was short-lived. The overwhelming enthusiasm from the fans, thrilled to see the elusive billionaire in their midst, led to him being swiftly mobbed. Understanding the need for his departure to prevent any disruption, Desmond left the bar shortly after his arrival.
This incident stands in stark contrast to the current sentiments surrounding Desmond’s engagement with the club. While his appearance at the New York Gala for the Celtic Foundation highlighted his ongoing involvement, it also reignited discussions about his perceived distance from the day-to-day passions and concerns of the fanbase.
Despite this, the story of Desmond’s Turin visit remains a fond memory for those who made the trip. It reflects a moment when the barriers between a billionaire shareholder and the average fan were momentarily lifted, creating a shared memory rooted in goodwill and a mutual love for Celtic.
As discussions about fan representation and ownership continue, and as the Celtic Trust pushes for greater influence through its “Drive for Five” campaign, memories of Desmond’s Turin gesture serve as a reminder of the complex relationship between club owners and their supporters.
With calls for new leadership at board level and for Desmond to reconsider his approach to fan engagement, the club finds itself at a crossroads this summer, title or no title.
