The SPFL have declined to force Celtic to allocate away tickets to Rangers for this month's final Old Firm derby of the season, but have stated that the visitors should receive a "reasonable allocation" of five per cent of seats. This decision comes after Rangers requested league intervention following Celtic's refusal to provide any tickets for the 10 May clash unless the Union Bears group was excluded.

The league body clarified that it "would not overrule a risk assessment carried out by the party (Celtic) legally responsible for the safety and security of the event." This effectively leaves the resolution of the dispute in the hands of the two Glasgow giants themselves.

The tension stems from disorder at the Scottish Cup quarter-final between the sides at Ibrox on 8 March, when spectators from both home and away sections invaded the pitch after Celtic's penalty shootout victory. This match marked the fourth Old Firm meeting this season to feature away supporters, following a period without any away allocations. Notably, the cup tie had a larger away contingent of 15 per cent due to competition rules.

An ongoing Scottish FA investigation, led by sports event consultant Mark Blackbourne, has yet to report its findings on the incident. Rangers have stressed they "been clear in condemning the actions of certain individuals on 8 March" and have been "attempting to work with Celtic to mitigate any security concerns for the upcoming match."

With the title race heating up—involving leaders Hearts and both Old Firm sides—Rangers argue that "the removal of away supporters from one of the defining fixtures of the competition would introduce a clear and material sporting imbalance." Celtic, however, had demanded the exclusion of a section of the Rangers support they claim "identifiably engaged in serious violence and disorder," expressing "surprise and disappointment" that Rangers have not agreed to the request.

For fans gearing up for this crucial derby, the debate over ticket allocations adds another layer of intensity to an already electric fixture. Stay tuned for updates as the clubs work to resolve the situation ahead of the big match.