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Teams 12 September 2026

McInnes disappointed with ban on away fans at Old

SPFL bans away fans from Old Firm matches after ticket row; McInnes reacts disappointed.

McInnes disappointed about ban on away fans at Old

According to Sports.

Background

Rangers manager Derek McInnes has expressed his disappointment at the SPFL's decision to ban away fans. This decision follows a complex history of ticket sharing between Rangers and Celtic, with previous disturbances leading to restrictions. The absence of away fans can impact the competitive edge of Old Firm matches, which is important for both clubs and supporters.

Why this matters

The ban on away fans at Old Firm matches has major implications for the atmosphere and rivalry in these charged matches. The presence of away fans, which traditionally enhance the atmosphere, will now be missing, significantly changing the dynamics in the stadium. This decision stems from concerns about safety and logistics, but also raises questions about the impact on the football atmosphere in the SPFL.

Key points

  • McInnes disappointed with ban on away fans at Old.
  • SPFL bans away fans from Old Firm matches after ticket dispute; McInnes reacts disappointed.
  • McInnes 'disappointed' by Old Firm fan ban.

Rangers boss Derek McInnes has expressed his disappointment at the decision that away fans will not be allowed to attend Old Firm matches this season. The Scottish Professional League (SPFL) announced the move after Celtic objected to city rivals Rangers' intention to make only 300 tickets available for the League Cup match on September 13 at Ibrox.

The decision follows a longer discussion about the distribution of away tickets in these charged derbies. Last season, at the quarter-final of the Scottish Cup at Ibrox, Celtic received the traditional allocation of approximately 8,000 tickets. After disturbances surrounding that match, a lower number of 2,500 was later agreed. The announcement that only 300 tickets would be allocated for the upcoming cup poster led to a formal challenge from Celtic to the SPFL. He has now intervened with a complete ban on away crowds for the upcoming Old Firm matches this season.

The measure affects one of the most charged derbies in European football. The away section with green-white or blue-white supporters is traditionally a visually and vocally defining element in the Old Firm atmosphere. Without away fans, the balance shifts completely to the home crowd and inevitably changes the dynamics in the stadium. Proponents of stricter allocations point to safety and logistics; Opponents fear that an essential part of the football atmosphere and rivalry is being lost.

It is not surprising that McInnes is disappointed. Coaches and players often emphasize how much the support of traveling fans can influence performance on the field. At the same time, the SPFL's decision shows that the association puts stability and safety at the top of its priority list in a context where ticket distribution has regularly led to discussion in recent seasons. The move has direct consequences for the League Cup cracker on September 13 in Ibrox, but also for other Old Firm meetings later this season.

The Old Firm derbies between Rangers and Celtic are rarely solely about the scoreline or the next oneround in a cup tournament. Reputation, history and city pride always play a role. An entire home crowd can further boost the atmosphere, but the loss of an organized away section also takes away part of the classic derby experience. How this works out in practice on the field – in terms of game pattern, intensity and moments of pressure – will have to be seen when the teams meet.

For now, the SPFL's message is clear: away fans are not welcome at upcoming Old Firm matches this season. This means that the discussion about the distribution of a handful of cards is off the table for the time being, but the broader discussion about proportionality, safety and atmosphere will undoubtedly continue to play out in Scotland.

What's happening now

With the ban on away fans, it is likely that the SPFL and involved clubs will have to discuss further about ticket distribution and safety measures. The upcoming Old Firm matches will now be completely dominated by the home crowd, increasing the pressure on Rangers and Celtic to maintain the rivalry in a different way. Fans and analysts will be closely watching the reactions to this decision, especially given the historical significance of this derby.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the decision the SPFL has made regarding away fans?

The SPFL has decided that away fans will not be allowed to attend Old Firm matches this season.

Why did Celtic object to the number of tickets available?

Celtic objected to Rangers' intention to make only 300 tickets available for the League Cup match.

Who has expressed disappointment about the ban on away fans?

Rangers coach Derek McInnes has expressed his disappointment at the decision.

What was the situation surrounding the away cards in the previous Old Firm matches?

Last season Celtic received approximately 8,000 tickets, but after disturbances this number was later reduced to 2,500.

What are the consequences of the ban on away fans for the atmosphere during the matches?

Without away fans, the balance shifts towards the home crowd, changing the dynamics in the stadium and potentially affecting the rivalry.

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