Celtic Begin 2026-27 Scottish Premiership Title Defense Against Dundee on August 3

Celtic face Dundee in their opening 2026-27 Scottish Premiership fixture at Parkhead on August 3, 2026.

Title defence opener delayed Celtic expressed their frustration after learning their Scottish Premiership title defence would kick off on a Monday evening. The club made numerous requests to the SPFL and Police Scotland to secure a weekend fixture but were informed scheduling constraints left no alternative. Their first game remains set for 3 August 2026 at 19:30 BST against Dundee. The conflict arises from Glasgow 2026 cycling events at Sir Chris Hoy Arena adjacent to Celtic Park on 1 and 2 August, alongside two Calvin Harris concerts at Hampden on the same weekend. ## Season kickoff schedule revealed The 2026-27 campaign begins on 31 July 2026 with Dundee United hosting Rangers. Hearts, last season's runners-up, travel to Aberdeen on the following Saturday, while Falkirk and St Mirren also play that day. The first Old Firm derby follows on 20 September 2026 at Celtic Park at 12:00. A Dundee derby takes place at Dens Park during the third round, with Edinburgh rivals Hibs and Hearts meeting at Easter Road on 2 September 2026. ## Manager returns to former club New Rangers manager Derek McInnes will make a return trip to Tynecastle on 28 October 2026, having previously left his role at Hearts. The schedule again omits a winter break, with fixture round 33 arriving on 10 April 2027. The concluding five post-split games wrap up on 15 and 16 May 2027. ## Dramatic title finish last season Last year produced one of the most thrilling campaigns in recent memory as Celtic secured their fifth consecutive title in the final moments of the season. Their crucial victory came against Hearts in the concluding fixture. Celtic now aim to extend their dominance with a sixth straight championship in the upcoming term.