Celtic and Rangers have reportedly been in discussions with Glasgow City Council and Police Scotland over concerns that potential city centre celebrations could lead to “disruption and disorder.”
In May, around 25,000 fans gathered in Merchant City to celebrate securing the Premiership title for the third consecutive season, bringing that part of Glasgow to a standstill. Similar celebrations have taken place in previous years, with Celtic supporters marking title wins in 2022 and 2023, while Rangers fans caused significant disruption in George Square after their title win in 2021.
According to the Glasgow Times, authorities have engaged with both clubs in an effort to prevent the kind of disorder, vandalism, and violence that has often accompanied gatherings in Trongate and George Square at the end of recent football seasons.
Police and council leaders have been eager to bring both clubs to the table to agree in advance on any potential organised celebrations in the city. However, no agreement has yet been reached, and Equalities Minister and MSP for Glasgow Kelvin, Kaukab Stewart, is expected to meet with all relevant parties next week.
Stewart stated: “Since my election in 2021, celebrations at the end of the SPFL season have often led to fans flooding the city centre, causing fear and concern for both residents and businesses.
“After receiving numerous complaints from people across the city, I have met with Rangers FC, Celtic FC, the Merchant City and Trongate Community Council, and other relevant stakeholders to discuss concerns and explore potential plans to prevent a repeat of past incidents, ensuring that everyone feels safe in the city.
“It’s clear we need a long-term strategy to explore alternative ways for fans to celebrate without causing anti-social behaviour. This requires cooperation from all relevant parties. With the SPFL season concluding soon, I have scheduled a meeting to review what measures have been put in place to avoid a repeat of previous years.”
