Rangers under fresh SPFL investigation as club responds to UEFA charge with warning to fans

Rangers Face Potential Disciplinary Action Over Supporters’ Use of Pyrotechnics

Rangers Football Club has confirmed it may face disciplinary charges from the SPFL following the use of smoke bombs by fans during their opening William Hill Premiership match of the season against Motherwell.

This development comes shortly after UEFA imposed sanctions on the club for similar incidents during last month’s Champions League play-off match against Club Brugge in Belgium, which ended in a 6-0 defeat for Rangers.

UEFA fined the club €20,000 for fireworks ignited by supporters at the Jan Breydel Stadium and issued a one-match away fan ban in European competitions, suspended for two years.

In a statement released Friday afternoon, Rangers addressed these recent fan-related issues and acknowledged the possibility of further disciplinary measures linked to the incidents at Fir Park. The club stated it is currently reviewing its internal response.

The statement read:

“Rangers FC acknowledges the outcome of the UEFA disciplinary case following last month’s away match against Club Brugge.

“The club has been fined €20,000 for the use of pyrotechnics before kick-off. UEFA has also imposed a suspended one-match ban on away ticket sales in European competition, which will be enforced if a similar offence occurs within the next two years.

“Both UEFA and domestic bodies are now clearly taking a stricter approach to the use of pyrotechnics, highlighting the safety risks posed to fans, players, stewards, and emergency personnel. These actions have already resulted in sanctions across several competitions.”

The statement also mentioned domestic consequences. Following pyrotechnic use during fixtures at Hampden Park last season, the SPFL has already reduced Rangers’ ticket allocation by 500 for the next Premier Sports Cup semi-final at the venue. Future incidents could lead to a further cut of 800 tickets.

The SPFL has launched an investigation into smoke bombs used by Rangers supporters during the match at Motherwell.

Additionally, a suspended closure of the Copland Stand remains in effect after a discriminatory banner was displayed during a match against Fenerbahce last season.

The club warned of growing risks due to fan behaviour, including possible reductions in ticket allocations and stand closures.

It also noted that while financial penalties might not directly affect supporters, they do divert funds away from other important areas of the club.

“We understand the frustration among many of our fans and have received calls to take action against those responsible,” the statement continued. “We are assessing our next steps and will consult with supporter groups, including the Fan Advisory Board, to reach a fair and responsible decision.

“Ultimately, we all want the same outcome—a strong Rangers team, supported by fans who lift the club and represent the best of who we are.”