In the latest development surrounding the Glasgow Derby, Celtic Football Club has issued a firm statement following Rangers FC’s criticism of the decision to exclude their fans from the upcoming match at Celtic Park.
Rangers claimed they had won an SPFL Board Sub-Committee case against this decision, deeming it unreasonable. However, the allocation they have been offering up was not deemed reasonable nor did they attempt to present a case as to why.
Celtic has emphasised their commitment to the safety of visiting fans, stating they will not welcome Rangers supporters at Parkhead for the derby until substantial safety improvements are made at Ibrox Stadium. This decision underscores ongoing concerns for the welfare of away fans during these high-stakes matches.
Sources at Celtic Park revealed to CeltsAreHere back in September that discussions about installing safety nets in the away section at Ibrox had apparently taken place, indicating an acknowledgment of current safety issues. This absence of away supporters at such pivotal games notably reduces the traditional fervor and enthusiasm of the Glasgow derbies.
The controversy traces its roots back to the significant reduction in ticket allocations for Celtic fans at Ibrox, leaving a large number of The Bhoys’ fans unable to attend the derby. A return to a more traditional derby atmosphere, featuring significant away fan presence, seems contingent on mutual efforts towards enhancing fan safety.
The committee agreed with their standpoint against Celtic’s ticket policy, Celtic remains resolute in their decision. Their statement emphasised their preparedness for the hearing and satisfaction with the committee’s acknowledgment of safety and matchday experience concerns.
Celtic’s chief executive Michael Nicholson actively participated in the hearing, a stark contrast to his Ibrox counterpart James Bisgrove, who was notably absent despite the noise he and his club is now making. This disparity in engagement further highlights the serious approach Celtic has adopted regarding this issue.
The media might try to frame this situation as a simple case of tit-for-tat, but such a narrative grossly overlooks the critical issue of supporter safety.
Here is Celtic’s statement in full:
“Given the recent serious safety and matchday issues which our fans have experienced at fixtures at Ibrox and Celtic Park, Celtic’s position on this matter has been very clear.
Celtic welcomes the opportunity to seek to resolve these important issues, and it was a hearing for which the Club was very well-prepared.
We are pleased that the sub-committee recognised the importance of safety and matchday experience issues in considering the question of a reasonable allocation for both fixtures.
While respecting the ongoing process, Celtic stands by its decision not to allocate any tickets for away supporters for the match on December 30th.
Celtic will continue to focus on the importance of safety and matchday experience issues as we look to address reasonable allocations at Celtic Park and Ibrox from next year, in a responsible manner.”
