Rangers hand 'indefinite' bans to three fans

It comes after police charged three men with singing racist songs in Glasgow city centre before the fixture against Celtic.

Ibrox stadium
Author: Alison ConroyPublished 2nd Sep 2021

Rangers have handed 'indefinite' bans to three fans after an investigation into a video showing supporters chanting an anti-Irish song in Glasgow city centre.

It comes after police charged three men with singing racist songs before the fixture against Celtic at Ibrox.

Footage posted on social media showed Rangers fans attended by police on Argyle Street on Sunday chanting an anti-Irish song referencing the famine.

Three men aged 19, 21 and 24 have now been arrested and charged in connection with the incident.

In a statement Rangers said: "After liaising with Police Scotland regarding a well documented incident on Sunday, Rangers have written to 3 individuals to confirm their indefinite ban from all club fixtures. We reiterate our Club stance against all forms of discrimination and once again, underline our approach to so-called ‘fans’ who bring the good name of Rangers FC into disrepute."

Chief Superintendent Mark Sutherland, divisional commander for Greater Glasgow Police Division, said: "We have made the first of what I expect to be numerous arrests following the disgraceful racial conduct shown by a minority of Rangers supporters who were making their way to Ibrox stadium on Sunday August 29.

"Three men, aged 24, 21 and 19, were arrested and charged last night, Wednesday September 1, in connection with racially aggravated offences towards a member of the public and for the singing of racist material.''

He said racist conduct will "not be tolerated'' and investigations into the incident continue.

He added: `"We will continue to work with Rangers FC to identify and take appropriate action against those responsible.''

The incident happened before Rangers beat Celtic 1-0 at Ibrox.

The three men arrested were released on an undertaking and are due to appear at Glasgow Sheriff Court at a later date.