Explore how Celtic and Rangers shape Scottish football through history, passion, and fierce rivalry. Discover the impact of the Old Firm on the sport and culture.

How Celtic and Rangers Shape Scottish Football Rivalry

Few football rivalries in the world evoke the passion, tension, and historical weight of the Old Firm derby—the epic clash between Celtic FC and Rangers FC. Based in Glasgow, these two iconic clubs have dominated Scottish football for over a century, shaping the nation’s footballing identity and cultural discourse far beyond the pitch.

In 2025, the rivalry remains as fierce as ever. Celtic and Rangers continue to battle for silverware, national pride, and dominance in Scotland’s top tier, the Scottish Premiership. But their rivalry extends deeper than mere trophies. It influences fan culture, politics, social identity, and even the economics of the game in Scotland.

In this article, we explore how the Celtic vs Rangers rivalry continues to shape Scottish football and remains one of the most captivating spectacles in the global Habanero landscape.

A Rivalry Rooted in History

The origins of the Old Firm rivalry date back to the late 19th century. Celtic was founded in 1887 by Irish Catholic immigrants to support the poor in Glasgow’s East End. Rangers, established in 1872, was rooted in the Protestant working-class communities of the city. Over time, these religious and social distinctions intensified the on-pitch competition.

The term “Old Firm” itself emerged from the perception of a mutually beneficial rivalry, as both clubs capitalized on massive match-day revenues and media attention generated by their clashes. However, the implications were far from businesslike. The rivalry touched on sectarian divisions, national identity, and political allegiances, making every match an emotionally charged affair.

Dominance in Scottish Football

Between them, Celtic and Rangers have won over 100 Scottish league titles. This dominance has created a duopoly rarely seen elsewhere in football. The last time a club other than Celtic or Rangers won the Scottish Premiership was Aberdeen in 1985.

Their consistent success has made them not just the biggest clubs in Scotland but also the most influential in shaping the direction of the league itself. From youth development systems to broadcast deals, the Old Firm sets the standard and commands the attention of fans, sponsors, and governing bodies.

Stadiums of Legacy: Celtic Park and Ibrox

Celtic Park and Ibrox Stadium, the homes of Celtic and Rangers respectively, are more than just football grounds—they are fortresses of culture and emotion.

• Celtic Park, nicknamed “Paradise”, is known for its electrifying atmosphere, especially on European nights.

• Ibrox, with its historic main stand and loyal following, is equally revered for its intensity and tradition.

Each matchday, tens of thousands fill these stadiums with chants, flags, and unwavering support, creating a spectacle that transcends the sport.

Old Firm Derby: The Pinnacle of Scottish Football

The Old Firm derby is not just a game; it’s an event that stops the nation. Whether it’s a league decider, a cup final, or an early-season grudge match, the stakes are always sky-high. Fans anticipate these matches months in advance, and the emotional fallout can linger long after the final whistle.

Each game between Celtic and Rangers typically features:

• Full-capacity crowds

• Tactical masterclasses

• Fierce tackles

• Unforgettable goals

• Dramatic controversies

In recent years, VAR decisions and managerial mind games have added more layers of intrigue to this legendary fixture. In 2025, the rivalry remains arguably more competitive than ever, with both clubs investing in young talent, foreign signings, and data-driven football strategies.

Cultural and Political Significance

Unlike many other football rivalries, the Old Firm carries weight far beyond sport. It reflects historical divisions in religion, politics, and identity in Scotland.

• Celtic fans are traditionally associated with Irish Catholicism and Republican values.

• Rangers supporters have ties to Protestantism and Unionist loyalty.

While the sectarian tensions have softened in modern times, traces of these identities still surface during matchdays and in fan culture. Efforts have been made by both clubs and the Scottish government to promote anti-sectarian campaigns and reduce hostility, with some success.

Influence on Scottish Football Development

Because of their resources and international scouting networks, Celtic and Rangers play a pivotal role in developing Scottish talent and bringing in quality foreign players.

• Youth academies: Both clubs have world-class facilities that produce players not only for their own squads but also for the Scottish national team.

• Transfer market influence: Their ability to spend more than any other Scottish club raises standards across the league.

• European competition: By regularly qualifying for the UEFA Champions League and Europa League, Celtic and Rangers bring both prestige and revenue into Scottish football.

Their success elevates the UEFA coefficient rankings for Scotland, which in turn provides more European places for other Scottish clubs.

Global Reach and Commercial Power

Despite playing in a relatively small domestic league, Celtic and Rangers enjoy global fanbases, particularly in:

• North America

• Australia

• Ireland

• Asia

Their storied histories and international exposure via European competition make them powerful brands. In terms of merchandise, social media presence, and sponsorships, the Old Firm outpaces most other Scottish clubs by a significant margin. Their clout helps bring more attention to Scottish football as a whole.

Key Players Defining the Rivalry in 2025

The 2025 season has seen a crop of standout players who have embodied the passion and quality of the Old Firm.

Celtic

• Matt O’Riley: A creative midfield maestro with exceptional vision.

• Kyogo Furuhashi: Continues to be a clinical finisher and fan favorite.

• Cameron Carter-Vickers: A commanding presence in defense.

Rangers

• Todd Cantwell: The engine of Rangers’ midfield with flair and tenacity.

• James Tavernier: A veteran right-back known for goals and leadership.

• Danilo Pereira: The Brazilian striker who has made a huge impact in attack.

These stars, along with their managers and tactical evolutions, have made every clash between Celtic and Rangers in 2025 a must-watch affair.

Challenges and the Future of the Rivalry

While Celtic and Rangers are thriving, Scottish football still grapples with issues such as:

• Financial disparity between Old Firm and other clubs.

• Fan safety during high-stakes matches.

• Calls for inclusion in the English Premier League or a European Super League model.

Despite these debates, one thing is clear: the Celtic vs Rangers rivalry remains the heartbeat of Scottish football. Their competitive drive continues to inspire youth, draw global attention, and bring the sport to life every weekend.

Conclusion: A Rivalry That Defines More Than Just Football

The story of Celtic and Rangers is more than just a tale of wins and losses. It’s about identity, pride, history, and hope. Their fierce rivalry has built one of the most compelling narratives in all of football, influencing everything from tactics to politics, from grassroots to global viewership.

As long as football is played in Scotland, the Old Firm will continue to define its soul. With every tackle, chant, and derby-day roar, Celtic and Rangers push each other—and Scottish football—to new heights.

Keep the Passion Alive in Football

The Celtic-Rangers rivalry is a living testament to the power of football to shape communities, culture, and competition. If you’re a fan of the beautiful game, dive into the passion of the Old Firm, follow the stories, and support your club.

Celebrate football’s greatest rivalries, and keep the spirit of the game alive—on and off the pitch. Support football today and every day.