Former Rangers striker Kris Boyd has launched a furious criticism of the Scottish Football Association following the chaotic scenes involving Celtic supporters during the recent Old Firm clash at Ibrox.
The outspoken pundit did not hold back when discussing the pitch invasion and disorder that followed Celtic’s penalty shootout victory over Rangers in the Scottish Cup quarter-final.
What should have been remembered for a tense and dramatic derby instead turned into controversy after hundreds of supporters from both clubs flooded onto the pitch after the final whistle.
But it was the reaction or lack of immediate action from the SFA that sparked Boyd’s anger.
Boyd blasts governing body response
Speaking during a heated segment, Boyd openly questioned why the governing body had not moved faster to condemn the scenes and clarify possible punishment.
The former Scotland international said:
“I honestly cannot believe the response from the SFA. When you see fans running onto the pitch, staff being put in danger and absolute chaos unfolding, you expect the authorities to come out strong immediately. Instead it feels like silence.”
Boyd continued his passionate rant by warning that failing to respond firmly risks sending the wrong message across Scottish football.
“We keep talking about protecting players, staff and supporters, but when something like this happens, there needs to be leadership. The SFA should be front and centre saying this behaviour is unacceptable. If you don’t act strongly now, then what message are you sending?”
His comments quickly gained traction online, with clips of the rant spreading rapidly across social media and sparking debate among supporters from both sides of the Old Firm divide.
Chaos overshadowed dramatic cup tie
The controversy stems from the aftermath of Celtic’s dramatic Scottish Cup quarter-final victory at Ibrox.
After 120 minutes finished goalless, the tie was decided by a penalty shootout where Celtic kept their composure to win 4–2 and secure their place in the semi-finals.
However, celebrations quickly escalated as supporters poured onto the pitch from the stands, leading to confrontations and chaotic scenes that required intervention from police and stadium stewards.
Reports later confirmed that several arrests were made while a number of individuals were treated for minor injuries during the disturbances.
Investigation ongoing
The SFA has since confirmed that it is reviewing the events at Ibrox alongside Police Scotland as part of a formal investigation into what happened.
Officials are expected to analyse match reports, security footage and statements from both clubs before determining whether disciplinary action will be taken.
Possible sanctions could include financial penalties, stadium restrictions or other disciplinary measures depending on the outcome of the investigation.
Debate continues across Scottish football
Boyd’s explosive comments have only added fuel to an already heated debate surrounding the Old Firm clash and the responsibility of clubs and governing bodies when it comes to controlling supporters.
“Scottish football cannot keep pretending these things are acceptable,” Boyd added. “When scenes like that happen at one of the biggest fixtures in the country, the authorities need to step in and make it clear it won’t be tolerated.”
With the investigation still ongoing, the fallout from the dramatic encounter at Ibrox continues to dominate discussion across Scottish football.