Sectarianism in Glasgow takes the form of long-standing religious and political sectarian rivalry between Catholics and Protestants. It is particularly reinforced by the fierce rivalry between Celtic F.C. and Rangers F.C., the two largest Scottish football clubs sometimes referred to as the Old Firm, whose support base is traditionally predominantly Catholic and Protestant respectively. A 2003 report for Glasgow City Council indicated that people clearly believe "sectarianism is still prevalent in Glasgow", but that members of the public were divided on the strength of the relationship between football and sectarianism.
Supporters of Celtic (left) and Rangers during an Old Firm match at Celtic Park in 2008. The Union Jack flags signify the Unionist political views of many Rangers supporters.
An Irish tricolour flag visibly held by Celtic fans (left) and the Union Jack and St George's flag visible in the Rangers fans section (right)
Rangers F.C. signing policy
Between the 1930s and 1970s, the Scottish football club Rangers had an unwritten rule whereby the club would not knowingly sign any player who was a Roman Catholic. This was because Rangers were viewed as a Protestant, Unionist club, in contrast to their Old Firm rivals, Celtic who were viewed as an Irish Catholic club, although Celtic never adopted a discriminatory signing policy. Rangers' policy was ended in 1989 when they signed ex-Celtic striker Mo Johnston, under manager Graeme Souness.
As manager of Rangers, Graeme Souness (pictured in 2001) signed Maurice Johnston, an openly Catholic player.
