Independent review of Old Firm cup crowd disorder published after four months

A four‑month investigation into crowd disorder at the Old Firm Scottish Cup quarter‑final at Ibrox in March has finally been released, according to a report by Tom English. The independent review, commissioned after a series of incidents involving both Celtic and Rangers supporters, was long awaited by clubs, law‑enforcement agencies and the Scottish Football Association. Its publication marks the culmination of a thorough inquiry into the causes and consequences of the disorder that erupted during the match.

The review documents a range of incidents, from pitch invasions to clashes between rival groups, and identifies gaps in stadium security and crowd‑control protocols. It recommends a combination of increased policing, stricter enforcement of existing regulations, and enhanced cooperation between club officials and the police. The findings also call for a review of ticket‑allocation procedures and a reassessment of the “zero‑tolerance” policy that has guided Scottish football’s approach to fan behaviour.

While the report does not prescribe immediate disciplinary actions against individuals, it lays out a framework for preventing future incidents and improving safety at high‑profile fixtures. The Scottish Football Association has pledged to implement the recommendations and to monitor their effectiveness in the coming seasons. The release of the review is seen as a critical step toward restoring confidence in the safety of Old Firm matches and ensuring that the sport can be enjoyed without the risk of disorder.