Old Firm Disorder: Nine Arrested After Celtic Victory
Nine individuals have been arrested following significant disorder at the Scottish Cup quarter-final match between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox on Sunday, March 9, 2026. Police Scotland anticipates further arrests as investigations continue into the “despicable” scenes that marred Celtic’s penalty shootout victory.
Pitch Invasions and Clashes
The trouble began after Celtic secured a 4-2 win on penalties following a goalless 120 minutes. Supporters from both sides invaded the pitch, leading to confrontations and violence. Hundreds of Rangers fans, including members of the Union Bears ultras group, charged towards the Broomloan Stand after some Celtic supporters entered the field to celebrate ESPN.
A flare was thrown towards the Broomloan Stand, and missiles were exchanged between fans as police and stewards attempted to create a barrier. Celtic players, including Tomas Cvancara, who scored the winning penalty, and Julián Araujo were reportedly involved in incidents with Rangers supporters ESPN.
Police Condemnation and Investigation
Police Scotland Chief Superintendent Kate Stephen described the scenes as “shameful” and condemned the behavior of supporters ESPN. Police are working with both clubs and the Scottish Football Association to conduct a “robust investigation” into the events.
In a statement, Police Scotland confirmed that officers faced “extreme hostility and violence” over a sustained period, with individuals armed with items “clearly intended to cause harm” ESPN.
Arrests and Charges
As of March 10, 2026, nine people have been arrested. A 47-year-old man has been charged with assaulting a coach and a player. A 54-year-old man faces charges related to assaulting a police officer. Three other men – aged 20, 23, and 54 – have been arrested in connection with a serious assault on Helen Street following the match BBC News.
Additional arrests have been made concerning abuse towards officers and culpable and reckless conduct. Investigations are ongoing into vandalism, graffiti, and the use of pyrotechnics within the stadium BBC News.
Political and Footballing Response
First Minister John Swinney has labeled the scenes as “completely and utterly unacceptable” and pledged his full support to the police investigation Sky Sports. Rangers boss Danny Röhl and Celtic manager Martin O’Neill have also condemned the fan behavior.
Further Investigation
The Scottish FA has launched an immediate investigation into the disorder. Police Scotland is also investigating reports of supporters entering the Broomloan Road stand without tickets before the match Sky Sports.