Rod Stewart reveals why he turned down Celtic Park farewell concert

Rod Stewart has revealed that he turned down the opportunity to stage his farewell concert at Celtic Park.

The legendary singer and lifelong Celtic supporter is preparing for The Final Encore, his final rock and roll tour, which will see him perform across the UK and internationally next year.

Stewart, 81, is scheduled to play two nights at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro in April and May, but has now disclosed that he was offered the chance to perform a major farewell show at Celtic’s home stadium.

However, rather than ending his touring career with one spectacular night at Parkhead, the music icon preferred to extend his farewell by performing multiple concerts at smaller venues.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Stewart was asked whether he had considered making Celtic Park the setting for his final performance.

He replied: “No, no. My son keeps telling me I should’ve bowed out at Celtic Park. I was offered it, but I wanted to do just a few more gigs.

“Just one gig and it’s over. So I’m doing a few nights at the Hydro in Glasgow. And the same with the O2 in London. I could’ve done Wembley, but I chose to do a few nights at the O2. Just to make it last a little bit longer, make it sweeter.”

Stewart’s affection for Celtic is well documented, with the singer regularly attending matches at Parkhead and remaining an outspoken supporter of the club.

A farewell concert at Celtic Park would undoubtedly have been a fitting occasion for one of the club’s most famous supporters, although Stewart ultimately decided against the opportunity.

Meanwhile, the singer also addressed recent concerns surrounding his health following reports of a heart procedure, insisting he remains in excellent condition.

He said: “Absolutely, [I’m fine]. As usual, the dear old press blew it totally out of proportion.

“It’s not unusual for a man of my advanced years to have a stent. But I’m swimming, I’m running and I couldn’t be better.”