Rangers' fans set off pyrotechnics and fireworks before their 4-1 victory against Dumbarton in the Scottish Cup fourth round on Saturday, January 20, 2024.
Rangers’ supporters produced the display just behind a fence that borders one side of the stadium.
Scottish fans have been eager to introduce safe pyro regulations. However, authorities have been unwilling to let pyros into grounds due to safety concerns.
Pyro display at Dundee
This pyro display is not the first by Rangers fans this season. Earlier in the season, Rangers’ Scottish Premiership away game against Dundee FC on November 1, 2023, was heavily disrupted because of a pyro display in the away end produced by The Gers fans. This led to the players being taken off the pitch by the police.
This caused an 18-minute delay, leading to frustrations from Dundee FC. In a statement, Dundee FC said: “Dundee Football Club are investigating and working with the relevant authorities after a series of unacceptable actions in the stands at last night’s match at The Scot Foam Stadium at Dens Park against Rangers.
“Despite robust practice by all clubs in the SPFL and the SFA at Hampden, flares, offensive banners and singing of sectarian songs continue to be a problem all across our game in Scottish Football.
“As we are working with the authorities, we are unable to comment on the situation at this time. The club will comment further once the ongoing investigation has taken place and concluded.”
Rangers statement
Rangers responded to the incident that took place at Dundee a month later. On December 3, 2023, a club statement said: “As everyone at Rangers FC prepares for a massive month of fixtures, the club reminds supporters the use of pyrotechnics is not only dangerous, but also illegal within sports stadia.
“Supporters who bring pyrotechnic devices to football matches are at risk of arrest and put the club at risk of football sanctions.
“Rangers regrets the display of pyrotechnics at Dens Park last month, which resulted in a fire alarm triggering, and our match with Dundee FC being temporarily suspended.
“This led to an investigation by the SPFL and has put Rangers in a position where a repeat has the potential for the club to be subject to disciplinary action.
“Rangers will continue to engage positively with the SPFL, Scottish FA, Police Scotland and the Scottish Government on this matter.
“The club thanks all our supporters for their fantastic, ongoing support during this busy spell of matches.”