MOST people know Celtic FC for the roar of the crowds at Celtic Park, but there’s another side to some of these footballers that might surprise you. They’re proper racing enthusiasts. Over the years, a handful of Celtic players have gotten seriously into owning racehorses, proving there’s more to these lads than what happens on match day.
From Goals to the Gallops
Leigh Griffiths is one of the biggest racing fans you’ll find among Celtic players. He’s not just a casual observer either; he’s actually invested in horses that compete across Scotland and further afield. It’s become a genuine passion for him outside of football.
Kris Commons, who had such a brilliant spell at Celtic, caught the racing bug too. He’s owned thoroughbreds competing in both flat racing and the jumps, and you can tell he takes it seriously.
Then there’s Scott Brown, the former captain and legend. While he keeps his racing interests more under wraps than some, word is he’s definitely been involved in the sport.
Moussa Dembélé displayed an interest as well, turning up at races and dipping his toes into ownership.
John Hartson is another former player who’s been linked with horse ownership and sponsorships over the years. Once you get into racing, it gets its hooks into you.
The success of these horses varies wildly, of course. Some have won decent races locally, while others have competed at some pretty prestigious events across the UK and Ireland. For these players, it’s not just about the winning, though; it’s the thrill of competition, the same adrenaline rush they get from football, just in a completely different arena.
Two Sporting Worlds Colliding
There’s actually a lot of overlap between football and racing when you think about it. Both sports have incredibly loyal fans, deep traditions, and that same tribal loyalty. When Celtic players step into horse ownership, they’re joining a whole new community: trainers, fellow owners, racing fans, and it opens up a completely different social circle.
The competitive nature translates perfectly too. These players are used to the ups and downs, the winning and losing, and that mentality serves them well at the track. Plus, it gives them a chance to be seen as more than just footballers. They become part of the racing fraternity, attending events, sometimes getting involved in charity races, and building relationships that go well beyond what happens on a Saturday afternoon.
The Business Side of Things
Owning racehorses isn’t cheap. It’s a serious financial commitment that requires real knowledge and expertise. The whole ecosystem around racing is fascinating, with horse racing bookmakers playing a crucial role in how the sport functions. They set the odds, attract the punters, and help keep the whole thing financially viable.
When Celtic players own horses, they’re part of that same system. The odds the bookmakers set affect everything; prize money, what horses are worth, even an owner’s reputation. It’s a complex blend of sport and gambling that’s been part of British and Irish culture for centuries.
By getting involved, these players are helping to keep racing alive and thriving. They’re supporting jobs, funding events, and preserving traditions that go back generations. It’s actually quite meaningful when you consider the bigger picture.
Why It Matters
What I find interesting about all this is what it says about modern athletes. These aren’t one-dimensional characters who only think about their sport. They’re businessmen, they’re fans of other sports, they’re people with varied interests, just like anyone else.
Their involvement in racing helps challenge the old stereotypes. It shows younger players and fans that it’s not only okay to have diverse interests, but it’s actually valuable. You can be passionate about football and equally passionate about something completely different.
Plus, their investments genuinely help the racing industry. It’s not just a vanity project, but they’re contributing to employment, to the preservation of equestrian traditions, and to keeping these events going for future generations.
The Bottom Line
When you see racing silks in Celtic’s green and white being worn by horses owned by the likes of Griffiths, Commons, or any of the other lads, it represents something quite special. It’s two of Britain and Ireland’s most beloved sporting traditions coming together, creating connections that benefit both communities.
These players are building bridges between football and racing fans, showing that passion for sport doesn’t have to be limited to one field. And honestly? That’s pretty brilliant.
