Joe McConnell
There will be no away fans at the Old Firm’s first two league games this season.
Celtic and Rangers had agreed that 5% of the fees would be allocated to away fans again this season, provided that the necessary requirements were met at both stadiums.
This followed talks with the SPFL, who intervened after the last six league derbies had been held without away fans.
However, it is understood that Celtic have written to Rangers confirming they will not be giving away tickets for the first match of the season at Parkhead on September 1, live on Vscek.
There will be no Rangers fans at Celtic Park for the first Old Firm of this season
Celtic were expected to prepare for the game in just over two weeks’ time, but had to make the move because they feared Rangers had not done the same at Ibrox before their January game.
However, Rangers are believed to be confident they will have completed the required work ahead of next year’s match at Ibrox.
Philippe Clement’s side are currently playing at Hampden due to a delay in work on the Copland Road Stand at Ibrox; the club are keen for away fans to return and intend to discuss the matter with the SPFL.
Rangers understood they were confident that the work at Ibrox for the January game would be completed
In a statement they said: “Rangers have today been informed that Celtic will not be making any allocations for away fans for the Old Firm match in September.
“The assignment from both clubs was clear and Rangers were taking all necessary steps to honour that agreement.
“In the meantime, we can confirm that no away allocation will apply for the January Old Firm match at Ibrox. This is consistent with the reciprocity implicit in the agreement reached between the clubs and the SPFL.”
Vscek News has contacted Celtic and the SPFL for comment.
A five per cent fee was due to return for this season’s Old Firm matches
When questioned in March, both coaches said they were happy with the prospect of visiting fans returning.
Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers said: “It’s a huge thing and it’s something this club has supported for a number of years. Given the iconic nature of the game, it deserves both sets of supporters to be there.
“There are two groups of people who have been left out: the players, in terms of the game and the atmosphere that was created, and then, very importantly, the fans, because they are the ones who make this game special.
“It’s absolutely fantastic news and it’s fantastic for the game and for Scottish football as a whole that we can produce a sport that has this passion. With both types of fans in attendance, we can’t wait for it to come.”
Rangers manager Clement said: “I think everyone loves football, with two sides of fans chanting at each other or at each other, and you create that atmosphere.
“Nobody enjoyed the Covid period when there were no fans. It was really difficult and, for me, it was really strange to play at Celtic Park without our supporters.
“For me it was the first time, it was a strange experience, so I think every player and every coach wants both teams in the stadium.
“That’s what football is, it’s entertainment and entertainment from two teams. It’s a very positive thing for me.”
