SPFL announce ‘temporary arrangement’ to deal with Celtic and Rangers problem

Celtic and Rangers fans have been banned from attending Old Firm away matches across all competitions this season.

The SPFL announced the ‘temporary arrangement’ on Friday in response to the on-pitch clashes between fans after their Scottish Cup clash in March.

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An independent review into the scenes found that ‘life-threatening violence’ was narrowly avoided.

It came after Rangers fans invaded the pitch when Celtic supporters had spilled onto the playing area when celebrating a goal.

Rangers play host to Celtic in a Premier Sports Cup tie on Sunday, September 13 before the pair face off in the league at Celtic Park the following weekend.

The clubs had previously agreed on a five per cent away ticket allocation for all SPFL games played between the teams this season.

But the arrangements were reconsidered following the publication of the independent review.

Rangers proposed the offer of 300 away tickets instead of the usual 2,500 based on a risk assessment of the fixture.

However, Celtic rejected that proposal which saw the SPFL step in to make the decision.

SPFL statment

An SPFL statement read: “Ahead of the forthcoming Rangers v Celtic tie in the Premier Sports Cup (13 September) and the Celtic v Rangers match in the William Hill Premiership (20 September), the Scottish Professional Football League today announced ticket allocations for all SPFL matches involving both clubs this season.

“This follows the Scottish FA’s Independent Review into the events surrounding the Scottish Gas Men’s Scottish Cup quarter-final between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox on 8 March and subsequent discussions involving the SPFL, both clubs, and Police Scotland.

“Celtic and Rangers had previously agreed that an away ticket allocation of 5% of the available capacity for both grounds would apply for their SPFL matches against one another.

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“Following the events of 8 March and the publication of the Independent Review, the arrangements for the forthcoming fixtures were reconsidered. For the Premier Sports Cup tie at Ibrox, Rangers proposed a reduced away allocation based on its assessment of the circumstances and risks associated with that fixture. Celtic did not accept that proposal and sought a determination from the SPFL.

“After further discussions involving both clubs and the SPFL, agreement has been reached that there will be no away supporters for matches involving Rangers and Celtic in SPFL competitions for the remainder of the 2026/27 season.

“This temporary arrangement will allow both clubs, together with the SPFL, Police Scotland and other relevant stakeholders, to give proper consideration to the findings and recommendations of the Independent Review, take forward the necessary actions and ensure sufficient time is available to plan future fixtures thoroughly.

“It will also provide greater certainty for supporters and those involved in matchday planning, while avoiding repeated uncertainty around ticketing arrangements for individual fixtures.

“All parties have committed to working constructively during this period, with safety and security remaining the priority.

“The position will remain subject to review should circumstances materially change during the season.

“Arrangements for matches between the clubs beyond the current season will be considered well in advance of the 2027/28 season.”