Shock at the Old Firm derby: Away fans still excluded

Constant exclusion of away fans

In a decision that continues to cause uproar in Scottish football, away fans will continue to be absent from the highly anticipated derbies between Celtic and Rangers. Despite a promise in March that away fans would be reinstated from this season, recent developments – or rather the lack of one – suggest a different story is emerging.

Rangers recently announced some disappointing news for their fans: “Celtic will not release any seats for away supporters for the Old Firm match in September.” This decision underlines an ongoing tension and goes against previous assurances from both clubs and the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL). Initially there was hope, with both Glasgow giants agreeing to fill around 5% of stadium capacity with away fans in order to create a more inclusive atmosphere.

Impact of stadium renovations

Complications have arisen not only from administrative decisions, but also from logistical hurdles. Rangers, for example, have been temporarily relocated to Hampden Park. This move is due to delays in the renovation work on the Copland Stand, which is significantly affecting the organisation of home matches and may also affect their stance on the allocation of away fans.

This situation leaves around 2,500 Celtic fans and 3,000 Rangers supporters out in the cold, unable to attend one of the most exciting matches in the Scottish football calendar. The standard reciprocity expected in such arrangements appears to be on hold for at least the January matches at Ibrox, with Rangers explaining: “No away allocation will apply for the January Old Firm match at Ibrox. This is in line with the reciprocity enshrined in the agreement between the clubs and the SPFL.”

Fan mood and club communication

The impact of these decisions affects every corner of the Old Firm's passionate fanbase. The absence of away fans not only diminishes the match experience, but also robs games of that level of competitiveness and vibrancy that only a diverse fanbase can provide.

As both clubs endure this impasse, fans and pundits alike are left wondering what future relationships and arrangements will define one of Europe's fiercest rivalries. The anticipation of a sea of ​​colourful cheers in the stands remains just that – an unfulfilled anticipation, as reflected by the mood on the club's official channels.