Rangers fans won’t be able to travel to see Steve Gerrard’s side in action in the qualifying rounds of the Champions League this season, UEFA have confirmed.
In a statement issued via Northern Irish side Larne FC, UEFA reiterated that the “5% rule” for visiting fans remains suspended as away fans are locked out of the earlier rounds of European competitions, saying: “We remind you that in case UEFA matches are staged with spectators all clubs must respect the UEFA Minimum Health & Hygiene Requirements for the Return of Spectators v2.
“The decision on the number of permitted spectators falls under the responsibility of the relevant competent local/national authorities. Please note that in view of the ongoing travel restrictions and in order to minimise COVID-19 related risks, the UEFA Executive Committee decided as well to not allow visiting fans to attend UEFA club competition matches and not to apply the 5% rule for visiting supporters for all 2021/22 qualifying phase and play-offs matches.
“No spectators are allowed for matches played in neutral venues.”
While it is unclear whether fans will be allowed into Ibrox as a result of restrictions in Scotland, some will have no doubt eyed up away fixtures as a chance to see Steven Gerrard’s side in action.
Rangers won’t find out who they will face in the Champions League qualifiers until July 19 when the draw for the Third Qualifying Round takes place.
Gerrard’s side face two rounds of qualifying to reach the group stages for the first time in more than a decade and land a massive financial windfall for the Ibrox side.
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