The Scottish FA has launched an investigation after fans brawled on the pitch after the Scottish Cup quarter-final in Glasgow.
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Published March 8, 2026
The Scottish Football Association has launched an investigation after Celtic defender Julian Araujo and the team’s backroom staff were attacked by Rangers fans in an ugly clash following the Scottish Cup quarter-final in Glasgow.
Backed by 7,500 fans, Celtic beat their old farm rivals 4-2 on penalties on Sunday after drawing 0-0 after extra time at Ibrox.
The fighting began when dozens of visiting Celtic supporters invaded the pitch to celebrate the victory, sparking an attack by hundreds of Rangers fans who tried to attack their rivals.
The Glasgow derby, also known as the Old Firm, dates back to 1888 and is one of the oldest and most competitive derbies in world football. The derby has been fueled by political and religious divisions.
Even after police and stewards finally fenced off the pitch, fans continued to throw missiles and fireworks and fight with each other.
Police arrested a man after Celtic players, including Tomas Kvankala, rushed to the scene during an incident involving Celtic staff.
Kvankala then gave a television interview with blood stains on his kit, while Celtic right-back Araujo was shoved by a Rangers supporter.
The SFA condemned “the actions of the supporters entering the field” and said “an investigation will be carried out immediately in accordance with judicial panel protocol”.
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill said: “I think there was some sort of disturbance as we were on our way back, someone trying to get onto the field.
“There’s a natural elation in winning a game and having the fans in attendance. It would be a shame if that went too far.”
The ugly scenes occurred at the first Old Firm derby in almost a decade where away fans were allocated a large number of tickets.
“Explosive game”
Away supporters were banned from attending matches in 2023 after a number of hooligan clashes in previous meetings between the Glasgow rivals, but were allowed back on a reduced basis last year.
The Scottish Cup draw was seen as a test for more away fans.
O’Neill’s side reached the semi-finals despite not scoring a single shot on target in 120 minutes.
In the penalty shootout, Jaydee Gassama came under fire after Rangers captain James Tavanier smashed the first penalty onto the bar.
Before chaos could ensue, Kvankala converted to seal Celtic’s victory.
“There were a few tête-à-têtes, which is unfortunate. I hope it doesn’t dilute the performance,” O’Neill said.
“Old Firm matches are explosive matches, and they always have been. That may be one of the reasons why the derby is one of the best matches in the world.”
Rangers manager Danny Rohr added: “I wasn’t on the pitch at this moment. I didn’t see it until now. I just heard there was something on the pitch.”
“I think we all know the emotional situation after a game. No one wants to see this.”
Despite having 24 shots and having a goal ruled out by VAR in extra time for Emmanuel Fernandes’ handball, Rangers stumbled again against their hated neighbours.
Rangers drew 2-2 with Celtic in the Scottish Premiership at Ibrox last weekend, and the loss was a harsh blow as they had a two-goal lead at half-time.
