Rangers fans are facing severe repercussions after a group of supporters displayed a controversial banner during their match against Fenerbahce.
Barry Ferguson’s team secured a quarter-final spot in the Europa League by defeating the Turkish side on penalties earlier this month. The Glasgow club will now take on Athletic Bilbao next month, vying for a place in the semi-finals.
However, UEFA has charged Rangers after some fans unfurled what it deemed a “racist and/or discriminatory” banner against Fenerbahce. In response, the Ibrox club has announced lifetime bans for those involved, following confirmation that the Copland Stand will be closed for one game if a similar incident occurs in a European match within the next two years.
Financial expert Stefan Borson told Football Insider that UEFA considered the act a “serious” offense. Rangers have been fined £25,000 for the banner, with additional penalties of £5,000 and £3,755 imposed for obstructing passageways and throwing objects during the game.
Borson described the lifetime bans as “harsh,” noting that clubs have significant discretion in refusing entry to supporters. He explained that while an internal appeal process may exist, those banned have little recourse beyond the club’s decision.
He also pointed out UEFA’s inconsistent stance on serious offenses, stating that the organization has historically taken a more lenient approach to other issues, such as racism.
Meanwhile, Football Insider reported on March 27 that Rangers are planning a bold move to appoint Marco Rose as their next manager. The current RB Leipzig boss is under pressure, and with Rangers’ prospective owner, 49ers Enterprises, having strong ties to Red Bull—an investor in Leeds United—a potential deal could be on the horizon.
Rose has managed Leipzig for three years, guiding them to a fourth-place Bundesliga finish last season, though they currently sit sixth in the table.
Stefan Borson drops verdict on Rangers ‘lifetimes bans’ – Ibrox controversy takes twist
