49ers urged to be careful as fresh Ibrox ‘mess’ could be on cards after latest announcement
Derek Ferguson has urged the 49ers to rethink their idea of expanding Ibrox for the time being.
Rangers confirmed that they have begun a wide-ranging feasibility study to help shape the future of Ibrox and identify immediate ways to improve the matchday experience for supporters.
With a capacity of 51,700, the historic stadium has played host to many magical nights, and there are few atmospheres that can match it.
However, as Rangers continue to struggle on all fronts this season, Ferguson has warned the 49ers to stop focusing on developing Ibrox and prioritise their on-field issues.
Rangers can’t repeat Hampden Park shocker in 2024-25 season
Rangers kicked off an Ibrox ‘feasibility study’ late last month, as announced via the club’s official website, which will explore plans of expanding Ibrox further.
The Light Blues have had plenty of renovations at Ibrox over the years, and it has left them having to play their home games elsewhere at certain points.
Rangers played the opening games of the 2024-25 season at Hampden Park due to construction work, and Ferguson will be far from pleased if they have to move again due to future work on the ground.
Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, he said: “I’ll be blunt about this – I’m not too bothered at all. They were trying to add seats last season, we ended up playing games at Hampden – what a mess; it was ridiculous.
“The 49ers should just concentrate on getting a good side on the pitch. Stadium plans can then wait for the future.
“The fans aren’t massively excited from what I’ve seen, and maybe my view is harsh, but it’s about the product on the pitch.
“If they get that right, then they can do what they want – add another 10,000 seats if you want. But right now it’s not at the front of fans’ minds.”
Ibrox has been volatile this season, and the 49ers don’t exactly have the best relationship with their fans at the moment.
Why an Ibrox expansion is not a priority for fans right now
Over 12,000 fans boycotted Rangers’ match against Genk after Europa League tickets had risen in price and the team continued to deteriorate under Russell Martin.
Protests were also held at Ibrox ahead of the Premier Sports Cup quarter-final versus Hibernian in September, and this is hardly the time to think about a stadium expansion.
Season ticket holders are attending less games this season, and the seats around Ibrox are becoming more empty each week.
| Stadium | Ibrox |
| Capacity | 51,700 |
| Opened | 1899 |
| Postcode | G51 2XD |
Danny Rohl has the backing of the Bears fans, although it will take a while before his side is competing on multiple different fronts again.
It’s clear that improvements need to be made on the pitch before money can be pumped into expanding the stadium; otherwise, Rangers’ journey to reach the top of Scottish football will take even longer.
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