The controversial banner displayed during the derby clash with Celtic has received criticism

19:36, 08 May 2025Updated 20:35, 08 May 2025

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – MAY 04: Rangers fans produce a tifo during a William Hill Premiership match between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox Stadium, on May 04, 2025, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Craig Williamson / SNS Group)

Rangers’ fan advisory board have lifted the lid on a “robust” meeting with club officials over the Graeme Souness tifo that emerged ahead of their clash with Celtic.

The controversial banner, which has been handed over to police for investigation, showed an image of club icon Souness holding a shotgun, and was captioned with the words: “Take aim at the rebel scum.”

It prompted a scathing statement from Rangers, who slammed it as ‘unacceptable’.

The fan advisory board then held talks with the club on Tuesday to discuss the banner and the fan reaction to it.

In minutes emerging from the summit, fan chiefs claimed that statement in relation to the banner was “perceived as being issued too quickly and in a reactionary manner”.

The supporters also claimed that many of their fellow fans thought the banner was “edgy rather than offensive” while also claiming the club “acts quickly to condemn its own fans but doesn’t consistently defend them”.

The irked supporters also called for “more balanced handling of similar issues in future” and “expressed the concerns of many fans that the heritage of the club is in danger of being diluted”.

However, the representatives from the club involved in the showdown talks – which included CEO Patrick Stewart – saw the tifo had sparked criticism.

They also note the risk to the club and “raised concerns in relation to SPFL rules on unacceptable conduct in relation to threatening, abusive or insulting displays.”

It was noted that “all spectators, including authorities, police and sponsors, that the club did not approve or condone the tifo’s content”.

Ibrox bosses admitted they were at a “crossroads” over the next steps as a “formal approval” process was floated for future displays.

The club also insisted that the post-match statement was “considered” and “not kneejerk”.

After the 1-1 Premiership draw on Sunday, a Gers spokesperson said: “Rangers Football Club condemns the actions of the individual who threw a bottle during today’s match.

“This behaviour has no place at our stadium. Steps have already been taken to identify the person responsible, and the club will take the strongest possible action once their identity is confirmed.

“We also acknowledge that the tifo displayed prior to kick-off crossed a line and was unacceptable. Our approach to supporter displays has always been built on trust, with the responsibility placed on groups to exercise good judgement.

“We will reflect on how these displays are managed and engage with supporter groups to ensure the right balance of trust, responsibility and oversight is maintained moving forward.

“Rangers is proud of its passionate fanbase, and we all share a duty to protect the standards and reputation of our club.”