SFA release crushing statement with video evidence that tears apart Hearts’ claim over Celtic title win

The Scottish Football Association has released fresh footage and a strongly worded statement following the controversy surrounding the closing moments of Celtic’s title-deciding clash with Hearts — and the governing body’s response appears to significantly weaken the arguments raised by Heart of Midlothian F.C..

Video footage published by the SFA from Saturday’s dramatic encounter between Celtic F.C. and Hearts reportedly captures the final moments of the match, including the VAR review of Celtic’s third goal and conversations involving referee Don Robertson, the fourth official and VAR staff.

According to the governing body, the footage confirms the match was officially concluded by Robertson after stoppage time had elapsed rather than abandoned, directly challenging suggestions that the game had ended improperly.

The audio also reportedly includes comments from the fourth official indicating that Hearts manager Derek McInnes had expressed concerns over player safety and wanted the match brought to a close so his players could leave the field.

In a detailed public statement, the SFA said senior officials, including Chief Governance Officer Gary Booth, Head of Refereeing William Collum and VAR Manager Martin Atkinson, reviewed the audio and footage during a meeting requested by Hearts chairman Calum Paterson.

While the review was initially expected to remain private, the SFA said recent public comments forced the organisation to clarify events in the interest of transparency. The governing body stated it was made clear during the meeting that Robertson acted correctly in ending the match.

Addressing speculation over whether a final whistle had been blown, the SFA noted that football laws require referees to signal the end of a match but do not specify exactly how that signal must be made. Officials stressed that, based on the evidence and match report, Robertson clearly communicated that the game had ended.

The association also highlighted that the match clock continues running during goal celebrations and VAR delays, noting footage showed the game ended after 98 minutes and seven seconds — beyond the minimum eight minutes of stoppage time initially indicated.

The SFA reiterated that, under IFAB Law 5, decisions made by referees regarding facts of play are final and confirmed full support for Robertson’s handling of the incident.