Celtic and Rangers are set to face each other twice within eight days, beginning with a Premier Sports Cup quarter-final match at Ibrox Stadium on Sunday, followed by a Scottish Premiership encounter at Parkhead a week later. However, both matches will be played without away supporters, continuing a season-long ban imposed after violent incidents during their Scottish Cup meeting in March.
The decision to restrict away fans arose from scenes of disorder at the previous fixture, which saw supporters from both sides storm the pitch, engage in altercations with police, and throw flares and bottles. These disturbances drew widespread condemnation and were broadcast globally, highlighting ongoing challenges in managing the intense rivalry.
Scott Brown, the former Celtic captain and experienced veteran of 44 Old Firm derbies, expressed deep disappointment over the repeated outbreaks of violence that have overshadowed the fixture. Speaking ahead of the upcoming matches, Brown condemned those involved in the disorder, describing them as a minority intent on causing trouble rather than contributing to the sporting contest.
“The passion of the game is being pulled away with having no fans there,” Brown said, acknowledging the necessity of the measures but lamenting the impact on the atmosphere. He criticized individuals who attend matches disguised in balaclavas and carrying weapons, emphasizing that such behavior is unacceptable and occurs on both sides.
Brown also sympathized with club officials working to organize these high-profile games under difficult circumstances, underscoring a desire from both Celtic and Rangers to welcome away supporters back into the stadiums. He suggested that enhanced security measures, such as facial recognition technology, while contentious, could be instrumental in restoring trust and allowing away fans safely.
“It’s pride, passion and enjoyment of the bragging rights,” Brown said, emphasizing that the Old Firm rivalry should be defined by sport rather than violence. He expressed hope for a future where “thousands of away fans” can once again attend the fixtures without incident.
Despite facing a hostile environment at Ibrox without their traveling support, Brown believes Celtic players will be motivated to perform and quieten the home crowd. He highlighted the leadership role of Celtic’s captain, Callum McGregor, who he expects to encourage his teammates to embrace the challenge.
The ongoing absence of away supporters reflects broader concerns over fan safety at major football events in Scotland, and the upcoming matches will test efforts by authorities and clubs to maintain order while preserving the intensity that defines the country’s most famous rivalry.