Police condemn ‘shameful’ behaviour of Celtic and Rangers fans in Ibrox clashes

The latest Old Firm derby between Celtic F.C. and Rangers F.C. at Ibrox Stadium has once again sparked controversy after police condemned what they described as "shameful" behaviour from a minority of supporters during clashes around the ground.
The intense rivalry between the two Glasgow clubs is one of the most famous—and at times most volatile—in world football. While the majority of fans attended the match to support their teams passionately but peacefully, authorities say incidents of violence, disorder, and confrontations with police officers overshadowed the sporting spectacle.
Following the match, Police Scotland issued a strong statement criticizing the behaviour of certain supporters and warning that arrests and investigations are ongoing.
The events have reignited debate about fan behaviour, football culture, and security at high-risk matches in Scotland.
The Old Firm Rivalry: Football’s Most Intense Derby Few rivalries in world sport carry the emotional weight of the clashes between Celtic and Rangers.

Known collectively as the Old Firm, the two clubs dominate Scottish football and represent more than just competition on the pitch.
The rivalry dates back more than a century and is rooted in social, cultural, and historical divisions within Glasgow.
Origins of the Rivalry Celtic F.C. was founded in 1887 with strong ties to Glasgow’s Irish Catholic community.
Rangers F.C., founded earlier in 1872, historically attracted support from Protestant communities.
Over the decades, these identities fueled one of football’s fiercest rivalries.

While modern clubs and fans often stress unity and respect, tensions can still spill over—especially during emotionally charged matches.
The derby matches regularly feature:
Sold-out stadiums
Massive television audiences
Intense media coverage
Heightened police presence
When played at Ibrox Stadium, Rangers’ iconic home ground, the atmosphere is electric—but authorities remain alert for potential disturbances.
What Happened at Ibrox? The most recent derby at Ibrox Stadium was expected to be a dramatic contest on the pitch.

Instead, attention quickly shifted to crowd disturbances and confrontations outside the stadium and in surrounding areas.
Reports of Disorder According to statements from Police Scotland:
Officers responded to multiple incidents of disorder involving rival fans.
Several individuals were detained or arrested.
Objects were reportedly thrown during confrontations.
Police units were required to separate groups of supporters.
Authorities described the behaviour as "unacceptable and shameful", emphasizing that it does not reflect the majority of supporters.
Police also confirmed that video evidence and CCTV footage are being reviewed to identify further individuals involved in the clashes.
Police Scotland’s Strong Response In the aftermath of the match, uk news24x7 Police Scotland issued a firm message condemning the disorder.
Officials stressed that while the derby is known for its intense atmosphere, violence and intimidation will not be tolerated.
A police spokesperson stated that:
Officers had planned a significant security operation for the match.
The majority of fans behaved responsibly.
However, a minority engaged in anti-social and criminal behaviour.
Authorities reiterated that those involved could face:
Arrests
Football banning orders
Criminal charges
Police also urged fans to report incidents and cooperate with investigations.