Will O'Neill Secure Full Celtic Allocation at Ibrox?

Martin O'Neill, the interim manager of Celtic, is enthusiastic about the possibility of a larger Celtic fan presence at Ibrox for the upcoming Scottish Cup quarter-final against Rangers. He hopes Celtic will be granted the full ticket allocation, which could exceed 10,000 seats, reinstating a historic rivalry atmosphere that has diminished in recent years due to reduced allocations.

Last updated: 26 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the Scottish Cup quarter-final approaches, O'Neill's comments highlight a desire for greater fan representation at Ibrox. The current rules allow teams to claim up to 20% of tickets, which would mean a significant return for Celtic supporters. However, any increase in ticket allocation must be mutually agreed upon by both clubs and the police, reflecting ongoing tensions surrounding fan presence at matches.

Key takeaways

• Martin O'Neill advocates for full ticket allocation for Celtic fans at Ibrox.
• Current rules permit up to 20% of tickets for the away team, equating to over 10,000 seats.
• Celtic's away allocations have fluctuated significantly in recent years, often limited to fewer than 1,000.

Timeline: how we got here

The history of ticket allocations between Celtic and Rangers has been fraught with disputes. Key dates include:

• 2018: Rangers reduced Celtic's away allocation to less than 1,000 tickets.
• 2019–2023: Ticket allocations fluctuated between 750 and zero, sparking ongoing tensions.
• October 2023: O'Neill expresses hope for a return to full ticket allocations ahead of the Scottish Cup quarter-final.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

O'Neill's comments reflect a renewed push for a larger Celtic presence at Ibrox, potentially signalling a shift in negotiations regarding ticket allocations. His perspective as a Celtic supporter adds a personal touch to the call for change.

What was already established

The ongoing pattern of restricted ticket allocations has been a point of contention, with both clubs historically trading limited away tickets as a form of protest against perceived unfairness in fan treatment.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Increased ticket availability could enhance the matchday experience for fans, contributing to local economies around Ibrox as Celtic supporters travel for the match. Greater attendance is likely to foster a more vibrant atmosphere, benefiting local businesses and enhancing community engagement.

Businesses and jobs

Increased attendance can lead to higher revenue for local vendors and hospitality sectors, particularly if Celtic fans are granted a larger allocation. This could potentially create temporary jobs in the area surrounding Ibrox and support local businesses reliant on matchday income.

Policy and regulation

The ticket allocation process requires collaboration between clubs and law enforcement, indicating that any changes must navigate regulatory frameworks. Future consultations may address how to best accommodate fan needs while ensuring safety and security at matches.

Numbers that matter

• 20%: The maximum percentage of tickets available to the away team, translating to over 10,000 seats at Ibrox.
• 7,500: The traditional number of Celtic fans that filled the Broomloan Stand during Old Firm matches prior to allocation reductions.
• 750 to 0: The fluctuating range of away ticket allocations observed since 2018.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Old Firm: The term used to describe the historic rivalry between Celtic and Rangers.
• Allocation: The number of tickets set aside for the away team's supporters for a match.
• Govan: The area of Glasgow where Ibrox Stadium is located, home to Rangers Football Club.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the match approaches, fans should monitor announcements regarding ticket allocations from both clubs. O'Neill's comments may influence discussions and negotiations surrounding this issue.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Continued dialogue between Celtic and Rangers regarding ticket allocations may reshape future fixtures. The evolving landscape of fan attendance policies could be impacted by public sentiment and safety considerations.

Signals to watch

• Official announcements regarding ticket allocations for the Scottish Cup quarter-final.
• Any changes to club policies regarding away fan allocations.
• Public reactions from fans and stakeholders on social media and other platforms.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay updated on official announcements from Celtic and Rangers regarding ticket sales.
• Engage with fan groups to understand collective sentiments and actions regarding ticket allocations.
• Support local businesses around Ibrox during match days.

Don’t

• Assume ticket allocations will automatically increase without official confirmation.
• Engage in negative discourse about the rival club; promote support for your team instead.
• Neglect safety protocols if attending the match; always comply with regulations.

Checklist

• Check the official Celtic website for ticket allocation updates.
• Connect with fellow fans for travel arrangements.
• Plan ahead for matchday activities and local venues.
• Review safety guidelines for attending large events.
• Engage with social media to stay informed about fan sentiments and club announcements.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While O'Neill is optimistic about the potential for increased ticket allocations, there remain uncertainties surrounding the negotiations between clubs and law enforcement. Security concerns could still lead to restrictions on ticket numbers, and historical tensions between the clubs may influence discussions. Fans should remain cautious and aware of any changes that could arise.

Bottom line

Martin O'Neill's call for a full allocation of tickets for Celtic fans at Ibrox reflects a desire to restore the historic atmosphere of the Old Firm matches. The situation remains fluid, and fans should stay informed as negotiations continue. Greater attendance could enhance the matchday experience and benefit local economies, provided that safety remains a priority.

FAQs

Why are ticket allocations limited for Celtic fans at Ibrox?

Ticket allocations are limited due to historical tensions and disputes between Celtic and Rangers, resulting in fluctuating numbers in recent years.

What percentage of tickets can Celtic claim for the Scottish Cup match?

Celtic can claim up to 20% of the tickets available, which could amount to over 10,000 seats at Ibrox.

What impact does the allocation have on the match atmosphere?

A larger allocation for Celtic fans is likely to enhance the atmosphere, making the match more vibrant and engaging for both sets of supporters.