Recent proposals unveiled by the UK government, titled “Guidelines for taking passengers to sporting events in Scotland,” have set the stage for what could be a defining moment in our game’s history.
A joint statement issued by the giants of Scottish football—the Scottish FA, SPFL, and SWPL—voiced their disapproval of the proposed plans:
“There’s no evidence that this is a significant problem in Scottish football. We are concerned by the targeted nature of these proposals, which serve to demonise football fans and interfere unnecessarily in people’s lives. In Scotland, there are already appropriate powers held by PH operators, Police Scotland and other partners to deal effectively with a very small number of incidents by a minority of fans. The consultation itself notes that the majority of football fans are law-abiding and do not cause any disturbances when travelling to or from games, yet these proposals would unfairly affect the vast majority of football fans who travel safely and respectfully to and from matches on a weekly basis. We don’t support these unnecessary and heavy-handed proposals and we will be making our views clear in the consultation.”
Celtic also appear to take the same stance, with the Supporters Liason X account reposting the statement.
To any fan, the essence of these guidelines is clear: they don’t just challenge the rights of football followers; they threaten fundamental civil liberties. The very notion of needing police permission to stop at a pub or to provide movement details 48 hours in advance is more reminiscent of a surveillance state than a democratic nation.
Moreover, these rules pose significant economic threats. The local pubs and eateries around stadiums, which are still recovering from global crises, could see a further decline in business. Such businesses have long thrived on match-day footfalls.
Yet, beyond the tangible, lies an even deeper concern—the soul of football itself. This isn’t merely a sport in Scotland; it’s an emotion, a community. Football binds us, and these proposals risk tearing the fabric of this close-knit community.
Many meet up with friends and family at the game, and taking the opportunity to meet for a pint could have some serious consequences on fans’ mental health.
So, why this apparent vilification of football fans? And what precedent might these measures set for the future?
While it’s encouraging to witness the unity of football authorities, this battle demands the active participation of clubs and their management. This is not just a financial concern; it’s about preserving the very essence of the game.
Every fan is integral to this narrative. We’re not mere spectators; we’re stakeholders. This isn’t about one club or another; it’s about the very soul of Scottish football.
