Rangers v Celtic: Police Scotland issue statement after banner controversy
Rangers could be in trouble with the authorities once again after a controversial banner was shown ahead of the Celtic clash.
The final Old Firm of the season ended in a 1-1 draw with Cyriel Dessers and Adam Idah cancelling each other out, but it was off the pitch where the main talking point took place.
Supporters in the Copland Stand displayed a banner that featured Graeme Souness holding a shotgun before kick-off.
The Red, Blue and White tifo read “Take aim against the rebel scum” and has been condemned by former FIFA referee Keith Hackett.
The display could get the Gers into further bother with the Scottish FA, but Police Scotland are also involved in the situation.
Rangers set for further punishment after violent banner revealed
Celtic supporters were allowed back into Ibrox for the first time since 2023 as the Light Blues supporters revealed the message.
Police Scotland confirmed that they are investigating the matter, and the banner has been seized as enquiries continue.
A spokesperson for the organisation said: “We are aware of the banner and enquiries are ongoing.”
Rangers condemn banner as Celtic tensions rise
The Gers were quick to condemn the banner with a statement of their own that admitted that the banner “crossed the line” and was “unacceptable.”
Rangers have been in trouble with UEFA and the SFA on numerous occasions this season due to the actions of both supporters and players, including when Vaclav Cerny sprayed the Hoops supporters with water at Celtic Park in March.
| Result | Competition | Date | Venue |
| Celtic 3-0 Rangers | Scottish Premiership | 1 September | Celtic Park |
| Rangers 3-3 Celtic AET (Celtic win 8-7 on penalties) | Premier Sports Cup final | 15 December | Hampden Park |
| Rangers 3-0 Celtic | Scottish Premiership | 2 January | Ibrox |
| Celtic 2-3 Rangers | Scottish Premiership | 16 March | Celtic Park |
| Rangers 1-1 Celtic | Scottish Premiership | 4 May | Ibrox |
The Bears were handed a fine and a partial stadium closure warning after an ‘anti-woke’ banner was unveiled during the Europa League clash with Fenerbahce two months ago.
They have been warned that the Copland Stand will have to be closed if a similar incident occurs in the next two years.
Controversial actions do not do the club any favours after a dismal season on the pitch and will certainly not look good to the 49ers Enterprises group, who are set to take the reins shortly.
Patrick Stewart will be praying that the latest issue will not land the Gers in more trouble and lead to sanctions that could damage the major rebuild that is set to take place this summer.