Ally McCoist Cleared by OFCOM After Controversial Rangers Fans Comment
Ally McCoist has been cleared by media regulator OFCOM following complaints regarding his controversial remarks during the Europa League clash between Rangers and Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The former Rangers striker and popular commentator sparked backlash after he praised the Rangers fans as ‘amazing’, despite some sections of the support being heard chanting offensive slogans, including “F* the Pope and the IRA.”
OFCOM’s Investigation and Ruling
OFCOM received 14 complaints from viewers, including criticism from SNP MSP James Dornan, who condemned McCoist’s seemingly positive remarks about the atmosphere at Old Trafford. However, after a formal investigation, the media watchdog has cleared McCoist of any wrongdoing, citing that the chants in question were not ‘clearly discernible’ and that his comments were made in a general sense about the atmosphere, rather than endorsing any specific chants.
An official OFCOM statement on the matter read:
“Complaints related to chanting by fans, and to Ally McCoist describing the supporters as ‘amazing’. As the chants were not clearly discernible and the comment from Ally McCoist appeared to refer to the general atmosphere, our assessment found that the content did not raise issues under our rules.”
The Moment That Sparked Controversy
The incident occurred during Manchester United’s 2-1 victory over Rangers, when lead commentator Darren Fletcher pointed out the noise coming from the away end. He then prompted McCoist by saying:
“I’ll let you speak about them.”
McCoist responded enthusiastically, saying:
“They’re amazing, that lot.”
This statement led to an online backlash, with critics accusing the former Rangers captain of ignoring offensive chanting. However, supporters defended McCoist, arguing that his comments were directed at the general atmosphere and backing of the traveling fans, rather than endorsing any specific chants.
McCoist’s Reaction and the Aftermath
McCoist has not publicly commented on the OFCOM ruling, but the decision clears him of any broadcasting violations. The controversy, however, has sparked wider discussions about fan behavior, offensive chanting, and how commentators should navigate sensitive issues during live broadcasts.
Despite the complaints, McCoist remains one of the most respected voices in football punditry, and this ruling ensures that he will continue his work without any formal repercussions.
