Ibrox scenes ‘could hurt Scots’ Euro hopes’
SCOTLAND’S national clinical director Jason Leitch has warned that yesterday’s congregation of Rangers fans outside Ibrox Stadium in Glasgow could negatively impact Scotland’s efforts to host Euro 2020.
Thousands descended on the arena ahead of yesterday’s near titleclinching win over St Mirren, many without face coverings and most ignoring social-distancing advice.
Mass gatherings are prohibited under Level 4 Lockdown restrictions, while no spectators have been admitted to Ibrox since March 2020. The SFA is currently fighting to preserve Glasgow’s status as a host city for this summer’s Euros, with tournament organisers UEFA seeking assurances that spectators will be accommodated by a deadline of April 7.
Hampden is due to host four matches in June but the Scottish Government has yet to issue any advice on when it will permit fans back inside stadiums.
Leitch said: ‘UEFA will be looking on – they are talking to us just now about fans, safety, about all the things we need to do to get crowds in the Euros. It’s not a good look.’
A spokesperson for the Scottish Government insisted the scenes represented a threat to public health: ‘At this crucial stage of suppressing the virus, the actions of this minority of individuals jeopardises the safety of other supporters, the police on duty and the wider community.’
Scottish Police Federation chairman David Hamilton described the mass gathering as ‘really disappointing’. He added: ‘They are putting the public and officers at risk.
‘We do not have an option over whether we attend these types of incidents.
‘Most of those attending will not have been vaccinated. The scenes from outside Ibrox Stadium were concerning and beggar belief.
‘Cheering on your team is not more important that then safety of officers and the wider public.’
Police Scotland’s Chief Superintendent Mark Sutherland said: ‘‘I would remind supporters that, in line with current Scottish Government coronavirus guidelines, all gatherings are currently prohibited and we would urge members of the public to comply with these restrictions.
‘Our priority is public safety and officers engaged with those present to explain and encourage compliance with restrictions.’