Newly surfaced video footage has revealed troubling scenes of a violent street altercation that erupted in Bilbao just hours before the Europa League showdown between Athletic Bilbao and Rangers. The previously unseen clip, widely shared across social media platforms late Friday evening, captures a fierce confrontation between Rangers supporters and local residents in the city’s central district.
Eyewitnesses described the melee as “intensely volatile,” with multiple participants seen hurling objects, trading blows, and behaving recklessly. The disturbance escalated quickly, drawing a rapid response from local police. Central to the footage is a figure now identified as the primary instigator—an individual seen urging others into the fray and initiating confrontations. Thanks to the video’s clarity, authorities were able to confirm the identity of the ringleader and are now pursuing legal proceedings.
Local officials and both football clubs have strongly condemned the violent conduct, labeling it as disgraceful and entirely out of step with the spirit of international competition. Athletic Bilbao issued a formal statement expressing disappointment and reiterating that there is no tolerance for such behavior within the sport.
Rangers FC also responded publicly, stating, “This does not represent our club or our supporters. We are in full cooperation with local law enforcement and will enact disciplinary measures against any individuals found to be involved.”
The chaotic scenes have marred the build-up to the fixture and prompted UEFA to launch a review of the incident. Disciplinary actions or sanctions may follow based on the outcome of the investigation. Meanwhile, security measures are being reinforced for future matches involving both sides as authorities prepare for possible arrests in the days to come.