Celtic and Rangers appeal SFA sanctions over Ibrox pitch invasion

Celtic and Rangers have both appealed sanctions imposed by the Scottish Football Association (SFA) following crowd trouble at Ibrox Stadium during a Scottish Cup quarter-final last season. The original disciplinary action ordered both clubs to play their next home Scottish Cup ties behind closed doors and pay £100,000 in fines.

The incident occurred after a penalty shoot-out win for Celtic, when supporters from both sides entered the pitch, leading to clashes, the throwing of objects and pyrotechnics, and injuries to stewards and police. Police Scotland made 43 arrests in the aftermath. While both clubs admitted to breaching Disciplinary Rule 37 regarding “unacceptable conduct”, they have challenged the severity of the penalties.

Celtic described the punishment as “disproportionate” given the emotional context of the match, noting they were not the home side responsible for stadium safety that night. Rangers stated they would consider the implications of the decision before determining further steps. The SFA appellate tribunal hearings are scheduled for Monday, 26 October.