Police Scotland has expressed serious concerns over allowing large away fan allocations in upcoming Old Firm fixtures following trouble at Ibrox on Sunday. The Scottish Cup quarter-final clash between Celtic and Rangers ended in chaos after Celtic won on penalties, leading to a pitch invasion and violent incidents involving supporters from both clubs.
Pitch Invasion and Arrests Shake Authorities
Sunday’s match saw around 7,500 Celtic fans in attendance at Ibrox, a figure mandated by Scottish Cup regulations. The celebrations, however, quickly descended into disorder. Fans from both sides invaded the pitch, with missiles thrown and pyrotechnics used, forcing police and stewards to intervene.
As of now, nine arrests have been made, but Chief Superintendent Emma Croft of Police Scotland’s Greater Glasgow Division warned that this number is expected to rise “significantly.” Croft confirmed that several officers sustained injuries during the unrest, and she anticipated more reports as investigations continue.
Future Away Allocations Under Review
Celtic and Rangers are scheduled to meet in the Scottish Premiership soon, with around 2,500 visiting fans expected under a previously agreed five percent stadium allocation. However, Sunday’s incidents have cast doubt on whether larger allocations will be allowed in future.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Croft emphasized that while she does not make allocation decisions, police input will be part of the discussion. She stated that the current number of away fans at Ibrox was “not workable” and that replicating Sunday’s large-scale attendance is unlikely at present.
Croft added that adequate policing was in place, both inside the stadium and ready to support outside if needed, but she stressed that the focus should be on club operations managing the situation rather than continually increasing police presence in stadiums.
Condemnation and Ongoing Investigation
The scenes at Ibrox drew strong condemnation from Scottish political and football authorities. First Minister John Swinney described the violence as “completely and utterly unacceptable” and pledged full support to the police in identifying and prosecuting those involved.
Police Scotland, alongside both clubs and the Scottish Football Association, has launched a thorough investigation. Chief Superintendent Kate Stephen condemned the behaviour, highlighting that supporters had armed themselves with objects intended to cause harm, resulting in injuries to both officers and members of the public.
The Scottish FA also denounced the actions, promising a rapid investigation. Police have urged anyone with information about individuals involved in the disorder—before, during, or after the match—to contact them. Authorities aim to ensure accountability and prevent a repeat of the chaos witnessed at Ibrox.
