The Scottish Football Association (SFA) has decided to withdraw the usual complimentary tickets traditionally offered to retired referees and linesmen for the Scottish Cup final showdown between Celtic and Rangers at Hampden Park.
This decision, rooted in “security and segregation concerns,” has ended the custom of inviting former officials to the prestigious event, which includes a pre-match luncheon.
Crawford Allan, the SFA’s Head of Referee Operations, relayed the decision via an apologetic email to approximately 40 ex-officials, instructing them instead to request and purchase tickets and then submit for reimbursement. The email highlighted the potential risks within the stadium that precipitated the decision, expressing regret over the situation.
The move has stirred mixed reactions, with some questioning the fairness of prioritising former officials over die-hard fans, especially for a match as significant as the Celtic versus Rangers final. Meanwhile, unnamed sources within the retired officials’ ranks have expressed disappointment and disbelief, hinting at deeper frustrations with the SFA’s current administration.
The individual in question told SunSport: “Everyone’s raging, it’s absolute nonsense. There’s never been an issue with safety or security before, no matter who’s been in the final, so it feels like there’s more to it than the letter claims. We’re thinking they just don’t want us there. The SFA has lost the dressing room when it comes to how referees feel and now they’ve lost the observers as well.”
This should be scrapped altogether, as far as we’re concerned.
I can expect it In league glasgow derby with no huns allowed