Recent Old Firm games have been played without away fans due to an ongoing dispute between Celtic and Rangers over ticket allocations for Scotland's biggest match.
The feud began in 2021 when Rangers withdrew their offer of 700 tickets to Celtic fans for the Ibrox derby after Celtic wouldn’t guarantee the same number for the return fixture.
Despite a March agreement to allocate 5% of tickets to rivals, recent disputes and behind-the-scenes talks with Glasgow City Council and police have led to no away fans being allowed at the next two games in September and January.
Celtic informed Rangers that they won’t be issuing tickets for the September 1 game and doubt Ibrox will be ready for the return match at New Year.
A statement from Rangers on Wednesday read: "The allocation to be implemented by both clubs was clear, and Rangers was taking all steps towards fulfilling that agreement. In the meantime, we can confirm that no away allocation will apply for the January Old Firm fixture at Ibrox. This is consistent with the reciprocity embedded in the agreement reached between the clubs and the SPFL."
Celtic and Rangers takes place this weekend (Image: Craig Williamson/SNS Group via Getty Images)The SPFL also stated that there would be no away support for the two derbies but confirmed that both clubs are working towards reintroducing away fans after positive talks.
The SPFL confirmed an agreement that the next two derbies will have a "zero allocation for away supporters." "Thereafter, Rangers and Celtic will provide ticket allocations of around 5% of respective stadium capacities for away supporters for SPFL matches between the two clubs," the statement read. "This remains subject to all necessary requirements being satisfied at both Ibrox and Celtic Park."
An SPFL spokesperson added: "The presence of away fans is a vital ingredient of the passion, drama, and excitement that is the hallmark of the William Hill Premiership. We are pleased that Rangers and Celtic are committed to achieving the return of away supporters to their derby matches as soon as possible."
Celtic play Motherwell on Sunday.
