Celtic F.C annual report - year ending June 2025

A detailed analysis of Celtic's record revenue, profit, expenses and UEFA financial regulation compliance

Peter Lawwell, Chairman, September 2025: We recognise and share the frustration and disappointment of our supporters with respect to the timing of some of the incoming acquisitions (11 summer signings). We will always look to improve how we operate and overcome challenges where possible.

On the evening of Friday 19th September Celtic released their annual report for the year ending 30th June 2025 to the London Stock exchange. A release on a Friday night would often be associated with companies looking to bury bad news. It’s quite the opposite for Celtic, as the numbers involved are not only record-breaking, but quite frankly astonishing for a Scottish football club. However, the release came amidst the backdrop of severe fan unrest and the mobilisation of several fans groups in calling a vote of no confidence in the board, following the botched summer transfer window. The annual report reveals that Celtic, once again, had £77m cash in their bank account at the start of the 2025 summer transfer window. Rather than being a point of pride or celebration - as may have been the case in previous years - this instead angered many Celtic fans. This is because the financial announcement came just two weeks after the board’s failed attempt to placate the fan base by issuing a statement implying that Celtic’s transfer spending was capped by UEFA Sustainability regulations. The full release of the annual report was not until Tuesday 28th October, less than 24 hours after the bombshell that Brendan Rodgers had resigned as manager.

Michael Nicholson, Chief Executive, September 2025:
“Our objective each year is to compete in the Champions League. Unfortunately this season, we suffered a loss on penalties against Kairat Almaty, which resulted in Europa League entry instead. As a Board, we take responsibility for the failure to achieve that key objective and commit to improving going forward”

The finances of the richest club in Scotland can be simply broken down in a few short sentences. £144m of revenue in 12 months, and £61m of that comes from Celtic Park - £50m from the fans buying tickets and £10.5m from stadium operations. A further £30m is generated from merchandising - i.e. the fans buying shirts, while UEFA paid Celtic £40m. However, if you are interested in a much deeper dive into the finances behind the current Scottish Champions, including an estimation of Celtic’s compliance with UEFA’s Financial and Sustainability Regulations (FSR) then this article is for you.

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