SFA charges Rangers and Celtic over March 8 Cup disorder

The Scottish Football Association has published a damning independent review into the widespread fan disorder that marred the Scottish Cup quarterfinal between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox Stadium on March 8, 2026, with both clubs now facing disciplinary charges. The 37-page report, led by independent reviewer Mark Blackbourne, details multiple safety failures and two "near misses" that could have led to casualties, prompting a major reassessment of security for high-risk fixtures.

Following Celtic's victory in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw, hundreds of Celtic supporters invaded the pitch in celebration. This provoked an immediate hostile response from Rangers fans, with more than 100 charging towards the away supporters. The ensuing chaos saw fireworks thrown between groups, assaults on police and stewards, vandalism, and the use of pyrotechnics. At least 37 people have been arrested in connection with the disorder.

The independent review concluded that two critical incidents constituted near misses. The first involved masked Rangers fans, described as being armed with poles and reinforced gloves, coming "within a very small margin of a violent mass confrontation."...