Scotland's First Minister Criticizes "Unacceptable" Tifo as Police Investigate Incidents at Ibrox

Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, has strongly condemned a controversial tifo banner displayed by Rangers fans, which depicted former manager Graeme Souness holding a shotgun. The banner, shown in the Copland Stand before Sunday’s Old Firm match against Celtic, featured Souness with a double-barreled shotgun, accompanied by the phrase “Take aim against the rebel scum.” The image has sparked police action following several incidents of troubling fan behavior during the 1-1 draw. A Police Scotland spokesperson stated, "We are aware of the banner and inquiries are ongoing."

Swinney emphasized the importance of fostering respectful conduct at football matches, noting that the Scottish government would be “reflecting” on the banner. He remarked, “Obviously there was a banner displayed which was unacceptable at the weekend. I don’t think that was an appropriate image. But it’s for the club to reflect on that issue, to address any issues and for the police to make their judgment about that matter as well.”

In addition to the controversial tifo, there were other troubling incidents, including the throwing of a glass bottle into the penalty area of Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo. A Police Scotland spokesperson confirmed they were looking into the matter, adding that inquiries were ongoing.

Rangers FC condemned the actions of the individual who threw the bottle, stating: “This behaviour has no place at our stadium. Steps have already been taken to identify the person responsible, and the club will take the strongest possible action once their identity is confirmed." The club also addressed the tifo display, acknowledging that it “crossed a line” and was “unacceptable.” Rangers further emphasized their commitment to working with supporter groups to ensure better oversight in the future, stressing the need to maintain the integrity and reputation of the club.

Another concerning incident involved footage of a Celtic fan allegedly mocking the 1971 Ibrox disaster, which claimed 66 lives in a crowd crush at a match between Rangers and Celtic. The video, taken during Sunday’s Old Firm encounter, appears to show a Celtic supporter displaying the number 66 on his phone and gesturing with six fingers. Police Scotland confirmed that they were investigating the footage, and a spokesperson commented, “We are aware of the incident and enquiries are ongoing.”

Rangers FC condemned the mockery of the Ibrox disaster, with a spokesperson stating: “The Ibrox disaster remains the darkest day in our club’s history and continues to affect a number of families to this day. The mocking and celebration of any tragedy is abhorrent, and has no place in any football stadium or society as a whole.” Celtic FC also pledged to fully investigate the incident and take appropriate action.

In addition to these controversies, there were other arrests and incidents of fan misconduct before and during the match. A 40-year-old woman was arrested for threatening and abusive behavior and allegedly assaulting a police officer before the game. A 40-year-old man was also arrested after the match on similar charges.

Police are continuing their investigations into the bottle-throwing incident and other matters surrounding the match, with additional inquiries ongoing into other displays of inappropriate behavior.

_{Featured Image Credit: Unsplash / Winston Tjia's, Pixabay / NewUnion_org}