Scottish Premiership: SPFL review bans away support for Celtic vs Rangers fixtures in 2026/27 season
Meetings between Celtic and Rangers will have no away supporters in attendance this season, the Scottish Professional Football League (SFPL) has announced.
The decision follows an independent review into the trouble that occurred between the two sets of fans after a Scottish Cup clash in March.
Rangers welcome Celtic to Ibrox in the Scottish League Cup on September 13 before the Old Firm rivals meet again at Parkhead in the Scottish Premiership a week later.
SPFL statement
In an official statement, the SPFL said: “After 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.”
Managers react
In the wake of that announcement, Hoops boss Martin O’Neill told Sky Sports: “From a normal fan’s viewpoint, it’s really quite sad.
“I must admit, it’s one of the most phenomenal fixtures in European football, if not the world, and despite the calibre of the teams, it’s just a mouth-watering fixture.
“Perhaps the two clubs should maybe try and get together and see if they could sort something out – it’s not great not to have your away fans at a stadium.”
Rangers manager Derek McInnes, meanwhile, stated: “The first reaction is disappointing that it’s been made.
“I don’t know the club’s position on it – it’s more appropriate that the club speaks on it.
“Generally speaking, it’s always better in any fixture if your supporters are there to be able to watch your team, but obviously in the context of everything that’s gone on with this fixture, there’s a lot to consider and a lot to discuss.”
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