Scottish Football Association launches probe as Rangers F.C. and Celtic F.C. break silence on Ibrox chaos
The Scottish Football Association has confirmed an independent review will take place following the disorder that marred last Sunday’s Old Firm clash between Rangers F.C. and Celtic F.C. at Ibrox.
The derby ended in dramatic fashion as Celtic secured a place in the next round of the Scottish Cup with a 4–2 penalty shootout victory after a goalless 120 minutes. However, the match was overshadowed by chaotic scenes following the final whistle.
Supporters from both clubs spilled onto the pitch, with clashes breaking out while pyrotechnics were thrown as stewards and police attempted to regain control. Police confirmed nine arrests in connection with the incidents.
The situation was further complicated by reports of visiting supporters attempting to force entry into Ibrox before kick-off, while offensive graffiti mocking victims of the Ibrox disaster was discovered in the Broomloan Stand.
SFA begins evidence gathering
The SFA confirmed its compliance officer has begun collecting evidence related to the match and any potential breaches of rules.
A statement from the governing body explained that alleged breaches will be reviewed under the Judicial Panel Protocol, with findings shared with relevant parties.
Officials also confirmed the independent review will examine the matchday safety and security operation in detail, with the aim of preventing similar incidents in the future and protecting the reputation of the game.
Celtic response and Wilson comments
Celtic’s interim chairman Brian Wilson addressed the controversy, welcoming the investigation but expressing disappointment with criticism from Jo Farrell, who had earlier questioned the lack of condemnation from both clubs.
Wilson insisted Celtic have a strong history of working closely with authorities and said the club acts against unacceptable behaviour when evidence is presented.
He also argued that statements of condemnation alone rarely solve long-standing issues in football, stressing that the focus should remain on facts rather than assumptions.
Wilson confirmed Celtic are supportive of the SFA’s full inquiry and said any proven violence or threats should be condemned once the evidence is established.
Rangers strongly condemn disorder
Across Glasgow, Rangers released a lengthy statement condemning the disorder and confirming they have been in discussions with supporter groups, staff and authorities since the match.
The club stressed that safety must always come first in football and praised the efforts of stewards, emergency services and staff who dealt with difficult circumstances during the incident.
Rangers also strongly criticised the graffiti referencing the Ibrox disaster, describing it as vile and unacceptable while emphasising the importance of respecting the memory of the 66 supporters who died in the 1971 tragedy.
The club stated that any individuals identified committing offences could face sanctions, including stadium bans and the removal of ticket privileges.
Investigation expected to examine wider context
Rangers also called for the review to examine the broader context of the match, including decisions surrounding ticket allocations and the sequence of events that unfolded before and after the game.
For now, both clubs say they will cooperate fully with authorities while the investigation continues.
With the SFA now formally involved, the fallout from one of Scottish football’s most intense rivalries is set to continue as investigators attempt to establish exactly what happened during the controversial derby at Ibrox.
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