Rangers and Celtic Strike Agreement as 49ers Enterprises Takeover Nears Completion
Rangers and Celtic have reached a mutual agreement ahead of the anticipated completion of the 49ers Enterprises’ takeover. The negotiations, led by Leeds United executive Paraag Marathe, are expected to be finalized in the summer, with Rangers supporters hopeful that the deal will help them bridge the gap with their Glasgow rivals.
Tensions have long surrounded derbies between the two clubs, with away fans being banned from attending matches since 2023 due to disputes over ticket allocations. However, a new development could mark a positive change for both clubs and, more importantly, their supporters.
Rangers and Celtic Reach Supporter Allocation Agreement
The Old Firm rivals have now agreed to allocate 4% of stadium capacity to away supporters for the final two derby matches of the season. This means Rangers fans will be permitted to attend the showdown at Celtic Park on March 16, with a similar arrangement in place when Celtic visit Ibrox after the league split.
Scottish Mail on Sunday columnist Gary Keown (2 March, page 99) praised the move, calling it a “step in the right direction.” He expressed hope that this agreement could eventually lead to a return of the larger away allocations seen in the past.
He wrote:
“This is a promising start, and hopefully, it sets the stage for a full restoration of traveling support at these matches. The Old Firm derby has lost some of its intensity in recent years due to the absence of away fans. No matter the past disagreements, it’s inconceivable that these games should continue with lockouts.”
Keown also noted that Rangers’ prospective American owners must recognize the importance of away support, as their presence enhances the spectacle and global appeal of the fixture.
Rangers Still Playing Catch-Up on the Pitch
While the agreement represents progress off the pitch, Rangers still have significant ground to cover on it. The struggles under Philippe Clement have continued into Barry Ferguson’s interim tenure, with the Ibrox legend suffering his first defeat in charge—a disappointing 2-1 loss to Motherwell.
The 49ers Enterprises takeover may help stabilize the club’s internal issues, but it will not be an instant fix for their struggles. Until Rangers identify the right manager and improve their long-term recruitment strategy, closing the gap on Celtic will remain a challenge.
Ferguson’s future remains uncertain, and given the chaotic state of the club when he stepped in, it would be premature to judge him too harshly. The Light Blues still have a chance to salvage their season by making a deep run in the Europa League, but whether they have the squad to do so remains uncertain. Regardless of what happens, Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic side look set to retain their dominance over their city rivals for another season.
