Alious
January 2, 1971, remains a day forever etched in the hearts of Rangers supporters — a day marked by tragedy, sorrow, and remembrance. Fifty years on, the club and its community continue to honour the memory of the 66 fans who perished in a stairway crush at Ibrox Stadium, following a 1-1 draw with Celtic in the Old Firm derby.
Though decades have passed, the weight of that dark moment in Scottish football history has never lightened. Survivors’ recollections, from fans and first responders alike, offer harrowing insight into the chaos and grief experienced on Stairway 13. Their voices, along with those of club legends like Derek Johnstone, breathe life into history too painful to forget.
Johnstone, then a 17-year-old forward fresh from scoring in a cup final, recalls the haunting image of body bags in the dressing room—memories that have lingered throughout his celebrated career. He and his teammates took on the solemn duty of attending hospital visits and funerals, ensuring the club paid its respects to each life lost.
This anniversary comes amid COVID-19 restrictions that prevent fans and families from gathering at Ibrox to mourn collectively. Instead, tributes will be made quietly: a floral wreath placed at the John Greig statue, and a minute’s silence ahead of the New Year derby against Celtic. While physical togetherness is not possible, the emotional unity of the Rangers Family endures.
Stewart Robertson, Rangers Managing Director, addressed the limitations at the club’s AGM, expressing the desire to honour the 50th anniversary through meaningful events once restrictions ease. He emphasized the importance of involving the families of the victims in any commemorative activities.
The tragedy led to major changes in stadium safety, and the modern Ibrox — a transformed, secure venue — now stands as a testament to those who lost their lives. Supporters of younger generations, who never experienced the old terraces or the fear that once accompanied mass gatherings, still carry an understanding of the sacrifices made.
The pandemic has only reinforced football’s foundational truth: the game is nothing without its fans. As the Rangers faithful look forward to returning to their beloved ground, the memory of the 66 will walk beside them. The statue of John Greig, the silence before kickoff, and the stadium itself serve as constant reminders that while the Rangers Family may at times be apart, it will *never* forget those who never came home.
Alious
