AS we prepare for our upcoming UEFA fixture against Fenerbahçe in Istanbul, we want to ensure that you are fully informed ahead of your trip.
Update: 05/03/25
The club has continued to liaise with Turkish authorities regarding post-match transport arrangements for supporters.
We have been informed that coaches are expected to return fans to drop off points in the following locations:
Sultanahmet
Taksim
Kadikoy
The SLO team and travelling stewards will be on hand to assist. Pre-match transport options remain as planned.
Further details will be provided once confirmed, subject to the final decision of local authorities.
We are in ongoing discussions with UEFA, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and Football Supporters Europe (FSE) to facilitate the smoothest possible experience for our travelling supporters.
However, we anticipate that this will be a challenging trip, particularly in terms of safety, policing, and stadium facilities.
Fan Areas in Istanbul
For those travelling to Istanbul, the following areas have been recommended, which feature numerous bars and restaurants:
Taksim
Beyoğlu
Central Meeting Point & Bus Transfers
Local authorities have now amended their plans, and all supporters must gather at Gezi Park in Taksim Square instead of the originally designated location. From there, supporters will be transferred to the stadium via police-escorted buses, with each bus carrying approximately 80 supporters.
Due to Istanbul’s heavy traffic, the journey is expected to take between 45 minutes to 1 hour. Supporters should also be aware that no toilet facilities will be available on the buses, and no food or alcohol is permitted.
We recognise this last-minute change may cause inconvenience, and unfortunately, the club has no control over it. We urge all travelling supporters to plan accordingly and arrive at the new meeting point in good time, and thank you all again for your understanding.
Boarding Process:
Arrive at the designated meeting point at the agreed time.
Present your match ticket for scanning to validate entry and prevent duplication.
Undergo a security search.
Once cleared, board the bus for transport to the stadium.
Please be aware that this is not a shuttle service. The buses will transport supporters to the stadium and park for the return journey post-match. Do not attempt to use public transport to travel to the stadium on matchday.
Timings (Approximate & Subject to Confirmation)
14:45 – Buses arrive at the meeting point.
16:00 - Latest advised time to gather at meeting point.
16:45 – First bus departs for the stadium.
We are in discussion with local authorities to reduce waiting times at the meeting point.
Stadium Entry Procedures
Supporters should be prepared for multiple security checks upon arrival at the stadium:
First perimeter: Visual check by stewards and light body search by the police.
Second perimeter: Ticket validation and entry at the gates.
Third perimeter: Full body search conducted by private security under police supervision.
Post-Match Hold-Back & Return Transport
Following the match, a hold-back period will be enforced, during which all supporters must remain inside the stadium until the buses are ready for departure. Based on recent fixtures, hold-backs have ranged between 90 minutes and 2 hours.
Exit from the stadium will be through a single door, and we kindly ask for patience during this process.
We have been informed that coaches are expected to return fans to drop off points in the following locations:
Sultanahmet
Taksim
Kadikoy
The SLO team and travelling stewards will be on hand to assist.
Further details will be provided once confirmed, subject to the final decision of local authorities.
Stadium Facilities & Prohibited Items
Facilities at the stadium are basic, including limited toilet facilities. Additionally, there are strict regulations regarding what can be brought inside.
Prohibited items include:
Battery packs
Coins, vapes, or any throwable items
Make-up
Bags larger than A4 size
Clothing with offensive wording
Flags (subject to prior approval; entry is not guaranteed). Please email this to
Flags: Due to past experiences of refusal at turnstiles, we strongly advise against bringing flags. If you do wish to bring a flag, you must submit a photograph including dimensions in advance for approval by Fenerbahçe and Turkish authorities.
Medical Equipment: Reports suggest that medicine and various forms of medical equipment have been denied entry. If you require any medical device, please email [email protected] in advance so we can liaise with the host club and local authorities. Carrying a doctor’s note confirming medical necessity may also be beneficial.
There will be no alcohol available for purchase inside the stadium. Food, hot drinks, and soft beverages will be on sale, with payments accepted via cash and card. However, please note that coins will not be given as change, the difference is donated to a local charity.
Local Laws & Customs
We kindly ask all supporters to respect local customs and laws throughout their visit.
Key points to note:
Passports must be valid for at least 150 days from your date of arrival in Turkey.
Passports must be carried at all times; failure to produce ID may result in arrest.
Defacing the Turkish flag or making defamatory remarks about Turkish culture can result in arrest.
Be mindful when wearing club colours on matchday.
Ramadan Considerations
Our visit coincides with Ramadan, which is expected to begin on 28 February 2025.
While this should not significantly impact travelling supporters, please be respectful of local customs:
Avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum in public during daylight hours. Bars and restaurants will be available.
Avoid playing loud music or dancing in public spaces.
Refrain from swearing in public.
Ticketing Information
Tickets for this fixture are priced at £34. Additionally, on the insistence of the local authorities and for the safety of our supporters, coach travel to and from the match will be mandatory.
This is priced at £20 for a return journey. Tickets are available to purchase until Monday 3 March at 09:00 for those who have registered and have 1,818+ MyGers Points.
Please note that you have to submit your full name, passport information, and nationality to purchase the ticket and this legally must be shared with local authorities.
Additional Information
Please note that Istanbul is 3 hours ahead of UK time.
We recommend all supporters familiarise themselves with government travel advice: UK Government Travel Advice for Turkey
We also encourage supporters to sign up for updates regarding changing travel advice to stay informed about any potential developments.
We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to the outlined arrangements. We understand the challenging nature of this fixture and appreciate supporter patience and understanding
For any further queries, please contact us via [email protected].
Safe travels and we look forward to seeing you in Istanbul!
Rangers Football Club