Rangers warn SPFL of “concerning precedent” after Old Firm ticket decision ahead of Celtic clash

Rangers have voiced strong frustration after a controversial ruling over ticket allocations for their upcoming Old Firm clash with Celtic on Sunday afternoon.

While the club has ultimately accepted the decision, the fallout has raised wider questions about supporter rights and future derby arrangements in Scottish football.

Rangers disappointed by Old Firm ticket ruling ahead of Old Firm derby

The dispute centred on Celtic’s decision to restrict ticket allocation unless Rangers’ Union Bears ultras group was excluded from attending the May 10th fixture at Celtic Park.

The Scottish Professional Football League ruled that Rangers should receive 5% of the home capacity, but did not overturn Celtic’s stance regarding the Union Bears, citing security concerns following recent disorder between supporters.

Rangers described the outcome as “deeply disappointing”, warning that it sets a “concerning precedent” that could impact future ticketing arrangements across the league.

The Union Bears have since voluntarily withdrawn from the allocation to ensure that a full away support can still attend the match.

FGG says: A slippery slope for future Old Firm fixtures

This decision by the SPFL goes beyond just one match.

If clubs can begin placing conditions on which groups of opposing fans are allowed to attend, it opens the door to subjective decisions that could reshape away allocations altogether.

Security concerns are valid, especially after what happened last time, but there’s a fine line between maintaining safety and setting precedents that risk disrupting fan culture, as once that line shifts, it’s hard to move it back.

Rangers accepting the allocation ensures their support will still be present, but the bigger question remains – will this become the norm for the Old Firm?