Rangers have spoken out against the contingent of their support who raised banners that called on people to ‘defend Europe’ from foreign ideologies after receiving a UEFA charge for the action
Rangers have condemned the section of their supporters who raised a banner calling to keep ‘woke foreign ideologies out’.
UEFA have charge the club over the signs labelling them ‘discriminatory’, following their recent win over Fenerbahce. Rangers secured progression in the Europa League after controversially overcoming Jose Mourinho’s team, but required a penalty shootout to do so.
Fans could be seen brandishing three banners during the shootout at Ibrox that came together to read ‘Keep woke foreign ideologies out defend Europe’. European football’s governing body have since labelled the banner as ‘racist and/or discriminatory’ and Rangers have been unequivocal in slamming those behind the view being displayed.
The club say they are ‘fiercely proud’ of its diversity and told those against welcoming all to the Glaswegian stands that they should disassociate themselves from the Gers.
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In a statement, the club revealed it was: “deeply saddening and frankly embarrassing that the club is now set to face significant sanctions for the actions of a very small minority”. They added: “Rangers is a modern, progressive football club and we are fiercely proud of our diverse playing squads, workforce and support.
“For the club to be charged with such a matter in 2025 is shameful and the disdain for those responsible will be shared by the overwhelming majority of our supporters.
“This charge will bring consequences for the club, while the club are also working to identify those responsible and will ensure they also face consequences.
“For the avoidance of doubt, if you do not believe in 2025 that absolutely everyone is welcome to follow Rangers, whether at Ibrox or away, then Rangers is not the club for you and you should disassociate yourself with the club immediately.”
Rangers have also been charged for the throwing of objects against Fenerbahce by UEFA. The Scottish giants slammed the increasing presence of such action across the nation.
“Further, the club has also been charged by UEFA for the throwing of objects at the home match with Fenerbahce,” the statement continued.
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“This is becoming a regular occurrence, not just at Rangers matches, but across stadia in Scotland. Indeed, our players and staff were targeted with missiles at Parkhead on Sunday.
“Focusing on Ibrox, however, there was a widely-reported incident in the January Old Firm game, whilst at the recent game with Motherwell, one of our own supporters was hit and injured by an object thrown towards the away end. And now, the club faces a sanction for the actions of an individual last Thursday night.
“This senseless and criminal behaviour has no place in sport, nor in society. Again, if you think such behaviour is acceptable, you are not welcome at Rangers matches.”
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