Celtic and Rangers will play all their Old Firm matches this season without away supporters present. The Scottish Professional Football League confirmed the temporary arrangement for both Premiership and League Cup fixtures following discussions with both clubs and an independent safety review.
According to a report from Sky Sports, the decision stems from incidents during last season's Scottish Cup match at Ibrox in March. That fixture saw on-pitch clashes between fans after Celtic had been granted full access to the Broomloan Stand, bringing around 7,500 away supporters to the ground. For that cup tie, Rangers had initially offered just 300 tickets instead of the usual allocation of approximately 2,500, a proposal Celtic rejected before the SPFL stepped in to make a determination.
Why was this decision made now?
The SPFL stated that this temporary measure allows all parties to properly consider the findings and recommendations of an independent review conducted after the March incidents. "This temporary arrangement will allow both clubs, together with the SPFL, Police Scotland and other relevant stakeholders, to give proper consideration to the findings and recommendations of the Independent Review," the league said in a statement. The arrangement is designed to provide greater certainty for supporters and matchday planning while avoiding the repeated uncertainty that surrounded ticket allocations last season.
Both clubs had previously agreed to a five per cent away ticket allocation for all SPFL games at Celtic Park and Ibrox. That agreement has now been suspended for the current campaign. The SPFL emphasized that all parties have committed to working constructively during this period, with safety and security remaining the priority. The league's statement added that the position will remain subject to review if circumstances materially change during the season and that arrangements for matches beyond the current season will be considered well in advance of the 2027/28 campaign.
How does this affect the immediate fixture schedule?
The first derby affected is the League Cup clash at Ibrox next Sunday. Rangers will host Celtic in that cup tie with no visiting supporters permitted. A week later, the teams meet again at Celtic Park in the Premiership under the same restrictions. This comes as Celtic continue their strong start to the league season. Brendan Rodgers' side currently sits first in the Premiership with a perfect record of 12 points from four games, scoring 11 goals and conceding just two. They hold a two-point lead over St Mirren at the summit.
You can view the full league standings on our site. The team's next fixture is an away trip to face Aberdeen, who are tenth in the table, on December 19th. This match will not be subject to the away fan ban, as it does not involve Rangers.
What is this season's squad situation at Celtic Park?
The decision on fan allocations arrives as Celtic manage a significant injury list. Key players currently sidelined include defender Alistair Johnston, striker Callum Osmand, winger Jota, goalkeeper Kasper Høgh, and left-back Kieran Tierney. Manager Brendan Rodgers will be hoping for returns ahead of the demanding derby double-header. Supporters can check the latest availability on our dedicated injuries page for updates on recovery timelines.
The SPFL's statement concluded by reiterating the collaborative approach, saying: "All parties have committed to working constructively during this period, with safety and security remaining the priority." The league hopes this pause will allow for a safer, more sustainable model for future fixtures between Scotland's two biggest clubs. The immediate focus for Celtic shifts to maintaining their flawless league form, with detailed stats from their opening four wins available for review. Celtic travel to face Aberdeen on December 19th.
