Away allocations will return to the derby between Celtic and Rangers but not until the 2024/25 season.
For several years, both clubs have significantly reduced the number of away fans at matches between the two clubs – something first started by the Ibrox side against Celtic’s wishes.
The Bhoys have long sought a return to more sizable allocations citing safety and match experience concerns.
Now, a sensible compromise has been reached with both clubs allocating around 5% of their stadium capacity for the other team’s supporters.
However, the two remaining derbies this term will both be played in front of home supporters only.
SPFL statement on Celtic and Rangers ticket allocations
A statement from the league said: “Following engagement with both clubs, the SPFL is pleased to confirm that Rangers FC and Celtic FC will provide ticket allocations of around 5% for away supporters, for SPFL matches between the two clubs.
“This will be effective from Scottish Premiership season 2024/25, subject to all necessary requirements being satisfied at both Ibrox and Celtic Park.
“It does not affect the remaining two league matches between the clubs in season 2023/24, which will remain at a zero allocation for away supporters.”
Celtic hardline stance pays off
Following Rangers’ petty decision to drastically reduce allocations in 2018, Celtic could have continued with a status quo of just a few hundred in each stadium but correctly pulled the plug on that farcical situation to reach a better solution.
No away fans attending was preferable to a tiny group and the Bhoys were spot on in pushing for larger allocations.
Two to three thousand away supporters visiting each derby is a far more sensible and workable set-up, akin to European-style ticketing.
This is a victory for those who sought a larger away fan presence at the derby and a blow for those who instigated this mess in the first place. The spectacle of the fixture will now be enhanced from next season.