The Old Firm Rivalry is one of the most historic rivalries in the Scottish Premiership, and the world; played between Rangers and Celtic, both teams based in Glasgow, it has cultivated a reputation worldwide. Even as an American attending school in Scotland, other Americans have asked me countless times if I have been to a Rangers-Celtic game. Deep-rooted social and religious divides in Glasgow gave rise to the rivalry in the late 19th century, with Celtic receiving support from the Catholic population and Rangers from the Protestant one. The rivalry between the Old Firm became even more intense due to the sectarian tensions, elevating the game beyond football to encompass issues of legacy and identity, and because of this away fans have been banned from attending the matches.
Throughout history, there have been multiple occasions when away fans have been prohibited from attending Old Firm games. These bans are usually the result of certain violent or disorderly acts. A prominent example of away supporter bans took place in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, during times of high tension and hooliganism occurrences. One such suspension occurred in 1994, as a result of a riot during a Rangers vs. Celtic Scottish Cup match at Celtic Park. Authorities banned away fans from Old Firm matches for a while to quell more disturbances after the bloodshed. THen, in 1999, a string of violent incidents that spoiled matches between the two clubs led to yet another noteworthy ban. Authorities attempted to address safety issues and stop additional violence during multiple matches during which away fans were prohibited.
In the years afterward, away fan bans had also been occasionally enforced, frequently in reaction to particular events or threats of violence surrounding Old Firm fixtures. These restrictions were put in place as short-term measures to guarantee everyone’s safety and security. Now, the away fan ban has been lifted, and once again trust has been put in the two sets of supporters to act according to the Scottish league rules starting next season. Around five percent (2,500) of fans at both stadiums will be allowed to attend.
An inclusive atmosphere for supporters and the safety and security of all attendance were the driving forces behind the decision to relax the ban on away fans from Old Firm games. Improved stadium facilities and heightened police presence, among other safety measures, were crucial in reducing the likelihood of violence and disturbance during the games. A decline in incidents involving Old Firm matches was also attributed to coordinated efforts by authorities, clubs, and fan groups to encourage responsible behaviour and discourage hooliganism. Authorities decided it was appropriate to lift the ban on away fans after there was a clear improvement in the overall atmosphere and a noticeable decrease in disruptive behaviour. This allowed both sets of supporters to once again experience the passion and intensity of one of football’s most storied rivalries in a safe and controlled environment.
“Celtic Park during an Old Firm derby between Celtic FC and Rangers FC” by Vincenzo.togni is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0