Ex-PGMOL chief expects 'top end' punishment for Rangers, this is most likely outcome

Rangers face a potential fine or ground closure after the shameful scenes following the Scottish Cup loss to Celtic.

The Gers were knocked out on penalties at the hands of their bitter rivals after a drab encounter at Ibrox on 8 March.

However, the match itself was overshadowed by what followed, as both sets of supporters invaded the pitch after the contest.

Rangers and Celtic face an investigation from the Scottish FA, which could go badly for the hosts, according to Keith Hackett.

What could Rangers’ punishment be for ugly scenes vs Celtic

Former PGMOL chief Hackett believes that the Rangers will bear the brunt of the punishment, and the outcome could be severe for the Govan club.

Speaking exclusively to Ibrox News, he said: “The home club are responsible for the safety and security of fans and liaise with the Police Commander responsible for security and the policing of the event.

“There is a great deal of discussion and planning before games.

“The Scottish FA within hours of the game announced a full investigation, I am also sure that the Government will have expressed their concern.

“The scale of punishment will be towards the top end, which may include sanctions of fines and the risk of ground closure or parts of the ground closed off.

“Restrictions may also revert back to away fans at Old Firm Derby games being banned, what happened was not good for the image of the game or safety of supporters.

The Gers were already given the highest ever fine by the Scottish FA in 2013, after their failure to disclose player payments through side-letters linked to the Employee Benefit Trust (EBT) scheme.

Why Rangers vs Celtic scenes are a huge shame for all involved

The clash was the first time that a huge amount of away supporters have been allowed at an Old Firm contest since 2018.

7,500 Hoops fans used to frequent Ibrox regularly, but sides cited an increased demands for season tickets as allocations were reduced to around 1,000.

Numerous games were played with no away supporters before a five per cent allocation with extra security was allowed in March 2025.

The clash deserves an atmosphere worthy of the ill-tempered nature that it is known for, but supporters have to behave.

They have likely ruined it for themselves now, with allocations likely to be reduced again for future contests between the teams.

There may have been hope that the increased amount of fans could have become a regular occurrence, but that has surely been nixed now after the scenes.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Govan.