The highly anticipated return of away fans for the Old Firm game is set to take place next month, marking a significant moment for Scottish football. Scheduled for March 16 at Celtic Park, the fixture will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. This development follows a deal brokered by the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) approximately 12 months ago, aimed at restoring the vibrant atmosphere that has been missing since 2023.
For nearly a year, Old Firm fixtures have been played without visiting supporters due to disagreements over ticketing arrangements between Celtic and Rangers. The clubs ultimately reached a consensus to allocate four percent of saleable capacity at both stadiums to the visiting club, a notable reduction from past allocations. In 2018, Rangers had previously cut their away ticket allocation significantly from 7,500 to just 10 percent of that total.
Celtic's manager Brendan Rodgers expressed his enthusiasm about the return of away fans. He emphasized the importance of their presence in creating a thrilling matchday atmosphere.
"The fixture is everything with the fans," – Brendan Rodgers.
Rangers head coach Barry Ferguson also shared his delight at the decision, viewing it as a positive step for both clubs and their supporters. In his remarks, he highlighted the significance of having both sets of fans in attendance.
"At this moment in time, I'm just happy that the fans are back. In time, we'll wait and see, but at least it's a start," – Barry Ferguson.
Ferguson further elaborated on the experience of having fans back in the stadiums, stating:
"It'll be good that the fans will be at Celtic Park. I've always said it's something that the fixtures missed. In an ideal situation, it would be great if there was more," – Barry Ferguson.
The arrangement is not only meant for the upcoming match at Celtic Park but will also be repeated for the Old Firm derby at Ibrox following the league split. This return is anticipated to enhance the overall experience of the fixture, which is regarded as one of the greatest rivalries in world football.
The absence of away fans had left a palpable void in the atmosphere during these iconic matches. Previously, Celtic had refused Rangers' request for tickets for their December 30 game in 2023, reflecting ongoing tensions regarding away allocations. The SPFL had faced challenges enforcing vague regulations surrounding these allocations at that time.
Both club managers welcome this new chapter, acknowledging that the presence of both sets of supporters adds an essential dimension to the rivalry.
"Everyone welcomes it because the game is a wonderful spectacle, but it's everything with the supporters in there, so to have both back is great news for the fixture, for the players and ultimately for the supporters because that's who we play for," – Brendan Rodgers.
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