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What are the safety concerns surrounding Old Firm matches?
Safety concerns have been a longstanding issue during Old Firm matches, primarily due to the intense rivalry between Celtic and Rangers. The clubs have faced challenges in ensuring the safety of away fans, leading to the decision to exclude them from upcoming matches. Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers highlighted a lack of guarantees from Rangers regarding safety, emphasizing that the decision was not initiated by Celtic.
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How does excluding away fans impact fan engagement?
Excluding away fans from Old Firm matches significantly impacts fan engagement and the overall atmosphere of the games. Away fans contribute to the excitement and rivalry, and their absence may lead to a less vibrant matchday experience. The Scottish Professional Football League has acknowledged the importance of away fans for the league's excitement, making this decision particularly controversial.
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What is the historical context of fan attendance in rivalries?
Historically, fan attendance in rivalries like the Old Firm has been a crucial aspect of the matchday experience. The presence of away fans adds to the competitive atmosphere and fosters a sense of community among supporters. However, safety concerns have led to fluctuating ticket allocations over the years, with recent developments indicating a shift towards limiting away fan attendance.
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What led to the decision to exclude away fans now?
The decision to exclude away fans from the upcoming Old Firm matches stems from a long-standing ticket dispute between Celtic and Rangers, which began last season. An agreement was reached in March 2024 to allow limited away allocations, but recent safety concerns have led to the suspension of this agreement, prompting the current decision.
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What are the implications for future Old Firm matches?
The implications for future Old Firm matches could be significant, as the exclusion of away fans may set a precedent for how these matches are managed in terms of safety and fan engagement. If safety concerns continue to dominate discussions, it may lead to further restrictions on fan attendance, impacting the traditional rivalry and the overall experience for supporters.