The absence of Celtic supporters at recent Old Firm derbies at Ibrox Stadium has been a focal point of discussion in Scottish football. This situation stems from a series of decisions and disagreements between Celtic FC and Rangers FC, primarily revolving around ticket allocations and safety concerns.
Historical Context
Traditionally, Old Firm matches featured substantial away fan attendance, with allocations reaching up to 7,500 tickets. However, in 2018, Rangers reduced Celtic’s allocation to approximately 800 tickets, citing increased season ticket sales and fan preferences. Celtic reciprocated by limiting Rangers’ allocation at Celtic Park. This mutual reduction led to heightened tensions and, eventually, to both clubs refusing to accept away fans for certain fixtures due to safety and logistical concerns .
Recent Developments
In early 2025, efforts were made to resolve the impasse. Both clubs, in coordination with the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL), agreed to reintroduce away fans for the remaining Old Firm matches of the season. The agreement stipulated that approximately 4% of stadium capacity would be allocated to visiting supporters, translating to around 2,500 tickets for Celtic fans at Ibrox and 3,000 for Rangers fans at Celtic Park .
However, the implementation faced challenges. Celtic withdrew from the agreement for the September 2024 match at Celtic Park, citing safety concerns and incomplete stadium renovations at Ibrox. This decision led to Rangers not allocating tickets to Celtic fans for the January 2025 match at Ibrox .
Managerial Perspectives
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers expressed disappointment over the situation, emphasizing that Celtic had fulfilled their obligations regarding safety measures and that the issue originated from Rangers’ initial decision in 2018. He stated, “When you go back to when this all started, it had nothing to do with Celtic” .
Fan Reactions and Cultural Impact
The absence of away fans has significantly impacted the atmosphere of Old Firm matches. Supporters from both sides have expressed dissatisfaction, noting that the presence of rival fans adds to the intensity and tradition of the derby. The reduced allocations and subsequent bans have been seen as diminishing the spectacle of one of football’s most storied rivalries .
Conclusion
The restriction of Celtic fans from attending Old Firm matches at Ibrox is the result of a complex interplay of safety concerns, stadium logistics, and historical decisions by both clubs. While recent agreements aimed to restore away fan presence, challenges remain in fully implementing these plans. The situation underscores the need for continued dialogue and cooperation between Celtic, Rangers, and governing bodies to preserve the rich tradition and atmosphere of the Old Firm derby.
