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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Ewan Paton

Rangers fans dealt Champions League blow as UEFA confirm Napoli lockout

Rangers fans dealt Champions League blow as UEFA confirm Napoli lockout

NO Rangers fans will be allowed inside the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium to watch their team face Napoli in Italy.

The decision comes as UEFA decided to move Rangers' home clash with the Serie A leaders back by 24-hours. 

European football's governing body have this afternoon released a statement confirming the move.

It states that due to limited police resources available in Scotland because of the ongoing events surrounding the national mourning for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the game had to be delayed by a day. 

The Champions League group game will now take place on Wednesday, September 14 with an 8pm kick-off.

As part of the call, UEFA announced that no Napoli fans will be in attendance at Ibrox for the matchday two clash.

In turn, zero Rangers fans will be permitted inside the ground to watch the return group fixture in Naples on October 26. UEFA say this was based off of sporting fairness grounds.

The news is a huge blow to those intended to travel and have already booked flights and accommodation in Italy.

A Rangers statement reads: "Rangers can today confirm the upcoming UEFA Champions League match with SSC Napoli at Ibrox has been rescheduled for Wednesday, 14 September at 8pm.

"This is due to the severe limitations on policing resources and organisational challenges related to the ongoing events surrounding the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

"Rangers, of course, recognise this switch in date will inconvenience a number of our loyal supporters, and refunds will be available to those unable to attend the match.

"Additionally, no away supporters will be present at the match, allowing the club to make additional tickets available to MyGers members as a priority.

"UEFA have also confirmed that as a matter of sporting integrity, no Rangers fans will be permitted to attend the return fixture in Naples.

"The UEFA Youth League match with Napoli at Firhill has also been pushed back 24 hours and will be played at 2pm on Wednesday.

"The club can only apologise for any inconvenience caused by the most unique and sad circumstances which are beyond our control."

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