SPFL investigating use of smoke bombs in Rangers’ clash with Motherwell

Rangers have revealed the SPFL are investigating the use of smoke bombs by fans at their opening William Hill Premiership game of the season at Motherwell.

The Ibrox club were this week fined 20,000 euros by UEFA for supporters’ pyro use before the Champions League qualifying game against Club Brugge in Belgium last month.

The Govan club released a statement on Friday afternoon recapping supporters’ recent indiscretions, acknowledging the threat of further action due to the behaviour of travelling fans at Fir Park, while stating that the club is “reviewing our next steps internally”.

The statement read: “Rangers FC acknowledges the outcome of the UEFA disciplinary case following last month’s away match against Club Brugge.

“The club has been fined €20,000 for the use of pyrotechnics before kick-off. UEFA has also imposed a suspended one-match ban on away ticket sales in European competition which will be triggered if a similar incident occurs within the next two years.

“It is clear that UEFA and domestic authorities are taking a firmer stance on the use of pyrotechnics and the unnecessary safety risks created for supporters, players, stewards and emergency services.

“The consequences are already being felt, with sanctions now in place across multiple competitions.

“Following the use of pyrotechnics at fixtures at Hampden Park last season, the SPFL will reduce our ticket allocation by 500 at the next Premier Sports Cup semi-final at Hampden.

“Any further pyrotechnic incidents at future SPFL or Premier Sports Cup matches may result in an additional reduction of 800 to our ticket allocation.

“The SPFL has also opened an investigation into the use of smoke bombs during the match at Motherwell on the opening day of the season, which we are currently in the process of responding to.

“Separately, a suspended closure of the Copland Stand remains in place following last season’s match against Fenerbahce, in response to the display of a banner deemed to be discriminatory.

“While these incidents involved different circumstances and different groups, the risk of reduced ticket allocations and potential stand closures is now very real.

“Additionally, while the fines received do not have the same direct impact on fans, they divert resources from other areas and weaken the club.

“We know that many supporters are frustrated as a result of this and we have received requests to take action against the fans responsible.

“We are reviewing our next steps internally and will discuss with fan groups, including the Fan Advisory Board, to ensure a fair and responsible outcome.

“Ultimately, we all want the same thing, a strong Rangers, backed by a support that lifts the team and reflects the very best of who we are and what we stand for.”