Rangers are no strangers to UEFA sanctions over fan behaviour in Europe.
Last season, the club was fined after a discriminatory banner was displayed during their Europa League clash with Fenerbahce, which also led to a suspended closure of the Copland Stand.
Now, UEFA has issued another punishment, handing the Light Blues a £17,300 fine after supporters set off pyrotechnics during the Champions League qualifying defeat to Club Brugge at the Jan Breydel Stadium.
In response, Rangers released a statement warning their fans about the risks of further punishments.
Former Premier League referee Keith Hackett has also stressed that UEFA’s authority should not be underestimated. Speaking to Ibrox News, he warned that sanctions could escalate, even to the point of Rangers being expelled from the Europa League.
“This is a positive step by Rangers to bring supporters in line with acceptable behaviour,” Hackett said. “But fans must recognise that while the club is being hit financially now, the consequences could be far more severe. UEFA will not hesitate to take stronger action if necessary.”
On the pitch, Russell Martin remains in charge despite the heavy defeat to Brugge—one of the Gers’ worst-ever European results over two legs. His side now prepare to open their Europa League campaign against Genk, with domestic fixtures against Hearts and Hibernian beforehand.
Rangers’ group also includes heavyweight opposition in Roma, Braga and Porto, as they bid to reach the knockout stages.
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