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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
James McLaughlin

SPFL issue firm stance pyro statement ahead of Celtic v Rangers League Cup final

The SPFL have issued a statement on pyrotechnics and stadium displays ahead of this Sunday's Scottish League Cup final between Celtic and Rangers at Hampden Park.

The statement speaks positively about the facilitation of fan displays from both sides ahead of the showpiece encounter, outlining conversations between supporter groups, the SPFL and the SFA behind the scenes.

The SPFL, however, reiterates its opposition of illegal pyrotechnics being smuggled into the national stadium, and outlines criminal charges and other sanctions that will be handed down to those who choose to do so.


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Here's the statement in full: "Final preparations are under way for Sunday’s Premier Sports Cup Final between Celtic and Rangers at Hampden Park, as the SPFL gets set to welcome tens of thousands of supporters for one of Scottish football’s showpiece events.

"The SPFL is incredibly proud that it has the highest match attendance per capita in Europe and is committed to working with clubs and supporters to continue to enhance the overall matchday experience. The SPFL and Scottish FA have been in discussions after receiving requests to facilitate fan displays at the match.

"The Scottish football authorities are keen to support such requests, where appropriate, as such fan displays can enhance the matchday experience for all supporters in attendance.

"However, we have been clear with fans that while such displays will be accommodated, there remains a strict prohibition on smuggling pyrotechnics into the match, given they are illegal and pose clear risks to supporters, players and those working at matches.

"The SPFL, Scottish FA and both clubs are working with Police Scotland, and fans breaking the law by attempting to bring pyrotechnics into matches face a range of sanctions, including criminal charges and football banning orders as well as adding to the ongoing disciplinary process currently facing both clubs.

"As has been customary for recent Premier Sports Cup Semi-Finals and Finals, there will also be a pre-match organised display at the stadium, including the use of flame boxes ahead of the match kicking off. Such flame boxes are heavily regulated and used widely by sporting bodies across the world ahead of major events.

"Sunday promises to be a hugely exciting occasion, and we want fans of both clubs to have an enjoyable, memorable and safe day."

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