TOMORROW is the 50th Anniversary of the 1971 Ibrox Disaster – a day which changed Rangers Football Club and Scottish Football forever.
It is with great sadness that the COVID-19 pandemic has prevented us from being able to hold a full, traditional service to commemorate the anniversary.
Before the impact of the pandemic took hold, we had planned to hold a service that would be similar in style and scale to the one held at Glasgow Cathedral in 1971.
However, as there are no options that allow us to be completely inclusive of all the families, survivors and representatives that should be present at such an occasion, we have decided to postpone a major event until circumstances allow us to hold a service that would reflect the significance and magnitude of the occasion. We know how important a service is not only in terms of an act of commemoration but also as a way for families to meet and comfort each other.
In the absence of a service this year, additional digital and matchday tributes will be on display tomorrow and the club will continue to support and liaise with families via the Always Remembered communication channel.
As part of the commemorative activity, supporters will notice that we have released a new commemorative crest which contains the words “Always Remembered” and a wreath containing 66 leaves. This crest is a symbol of our collective grief and unity and will be prominent in all of our communications tomorrow.
We understand that normally a lot of people would visit the stadium on the 2nd January to pay their own tributes and leave a token of respect. Unfortunately we must respectfully ask supporters and individuals not to visit the stadium this year as government guidelines related to the COVID-19 pandemic restrict non-essential travel.
Glasgow remains in tier 4, the highest level of anti-virus measures, and it is important that everyone follows the guidelines to support the effort to control infection rates and assist the NHS. As an alternative to visiting the stadium, supporters may wish to donate to St Andrew’s First Aid as a gesture of respect instead. St Andrew’s First Aid were first to attend to the disaster in 1971 and they continue to support matches to this day.
To donate to St Andrew's First Aid and help to continue their life-saving work, please visit HERE or text SAFA to 70660 to donate £10. The memory of the supporters who passed away that day have a special place in the club’s heart and on the 50th anniversary, we will remember their lives and legacy.