The journey made by 80,000 Celtic fans to Spain for their team’s appearance in the 2003 UEFA Cup Final is being immortalised in a new film.
The production, entitled Seville, will begin shooting across Scotland and various European countries next spring.
Filmmakers say it will be an “uploading road movie ” which will capture the lead-up to the match when the Parkhead side took on Porto.
Seville follows the character of James ‘Thommo’ Thompson and his pals as they break his terminally ill uncle from hospital and drive him from Glasgow to Spain in a bid to get to the game.
Plagued by obstacles, the group see their friendships put to the test, unsure if ‘Uncle Davie’ will survive the pilgrimage to the 52,000-seater Stadio Olympico.
Supporters famously travelled in their droves to witness history, with only around 35,000 already having tickets.
Some 33 charter planes took off from Glasgow Airport in a single morning with more than 9000 fans on board.
The Spanish transport system seized up, with trains fully booked, and 3000 Celtic supporters are said to have driven from Malaga on mopeds to reach Seville.
UEFA said the Hoops had brought the largest travelling support ever assembled for a single game.
Although they’d lose the final 3-2 in extra time, the mass exodus is warmly remembered by those who made the trip.
Now Michael Murdoch and Chris Martin will see their script based around the fabled events brought to the big screen.
The pair said: “As writers, we find our best work comes from writing what we know.
“As lifelong Celtic supporters, Seville is a true labour of love which encapsulates friendship, family and the sense of community found in football.
“It will be a great joy to bring our story into the homes of Celtic and football fans around the world.”
The film, a first joint production from UK-based Trinity Studios and Futuristfilm Ltd, will be directed by Steve Johnson and produced by Jamie Marshall, who has worked on Twilight, The Foreigner, and Den of Thieves starring Scottish star Gerard Butler.
Steve said: “With this story of Seville, we’ve really tried to transcend the game of football and look at how the game connects people, not just from the same team, but from teams across the world.
“I’m sure this story will resonate with anyone who has supported their team in any level of sport and competition.
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with Jamie who is a supporter of independent talent, and I cannot wait for audiences to experience this emotional but uplifting journey with our characters.”
Jamie added: “I feel we are telling a special story that was inspired by a pivotal moment in the history of Celtic Football Club.
“This story will take you on a journey which will make you laugh, cry and be proud to be supporter, no matter the sport.
“For those Celtic fans around the world, it will hold a special place in their hearts and make them appreciate being a Celtic fan for life.”
