Rangers have reacted with “deep disappointment” after the SPFL backed Celtic’s position in the Old Firm ticket dispute — but they’ve confirmed they will still take the allocation on offer.
The decision means members of the Union Bears will not be included in the travelling support for next Sunday’s derby at Celtic Park. It follows the fallout from March’s Scottish Cup meeting at Ibrox, where post-match scenes spilled over after Celtic’s penalty shoot-out win.
The issue was passed to an SPFL sub-committee, which ultimately chose to support Celtic’s stance. That ruling has not gone down well at Ibrox.
In a statement, Rangers made their feelings clear.
“We are deeply disappointed with the SPFL’s decision to accept the ultimatum placed upon our ticket allocation for the game on 10 May,” it read.
“It sets a concerning precedent with potentially lasting consequences for the league and match-going fans, cutting across the spirit of the competition and disregarding the established agreement on away allocations between clubs.
“In light of the SPFL’s decision, the Union Bears have volunteered that they do not wish to be included within the club’s ticket allocation for this fixture.
“Our club, our supporters and the reputation of Rangers will continue to be defended robustly while the Scottish FA’s independent process regarding the events on 8 March runs its course.
“This is a defining match at a crucial stage of the season, and it is important that Rangers supporters are present to back their team. We will therefore take up the allocation available to us.
“Our focus now turns to the matches ahead, on the field and off it, working with all relevant stakeholders to ensure they are delivered safely, fairly and professionally.”
Despite their frustration, Rangers are expected to have around 2,200 supporters inside Celtic Park — though none of those tickets will go to the Union Bears.
The group itself responded earlier in the day, criticising the outcome and warning about the wider implications.
“The Union Bears strongly condemn the decision to ban the group from the upcoming Old Firm fixture,” their statement read.
“We believe this decision represents a direct attack on fan culture and sets a dangerous precedent, not only at Rangers, but across Scottish football as a whole.
“Following this ruling, we have been in dialogue with Rangers and have urged the club to accept the conditions required to ensure a full allocation, as it is essential that a fully unified Rangers support is present at the fixture.
“Yesterday’s decision reflects a fear from clubs and authorities, a fear of the positive impact of the Rangers support.
“We must ensure that unwavering backing for the team from the stands continues.”
All of it adds another layer of tension to a fixture that already carries huge weight. Rangers head into the final stretch of the season sitting third, four points behind leaders Hearts — and with very little margin for error.