Celtic Fan Fired Over Offensive Gesture Mocking Ibrox Disaster
A Celtic supporter has lost his job after a video surfaced showing him making an offensive gesture related to the 1971 Ibrox stadium tragedy, following Sunday’s 1-1 Old Firm derby draw. Rangers took the lead through Cyriel Dessers before Adam Idah equalised, but the aftermath of the fiercely contested match once again saw off-field controversy overshadow the game.
Darren Malloch, the individual in the viral video, was seen displaying the number “66” — referencing the 66 lives lost during the Ibrox disaster — first on his phone and then using his fingers to taunt Rangers supporters. His actions sparked widespread outrage online.
Malloch, who worked as a project manager for Advance Construction Scotland, has since been dismissed. The company confirmed his termination, labelling his actions “completely unacceptable” and stating it holds all staff to the highest standards of conduct. They also acknowledged that Police Scotland is now investigating the incident.
Rangers FC also condemned the act, calling the mockery of the 1971 tragedy “abhorrent” and reiterating its lasting impact as the darkest day in the club’s history.
The incident comes amid growing concerns over tragedy-related abuse in football, with anti-discrimination body Kick It Out reporting a 32% rise in such incidents during the 2023–24 season.
