Rangers confirm Ibrox attendance for Livingston Premiership opener; Celtic fans face Hearts lock-out

Attendance at Ibrox has steadily increased since the first pre-season friendly with spectators – against Arsenal – saw 2000 lucky fans admitted.

Ibrox will be just under half full for the new season kick-off. (Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group)

Since then the crowd has grown gradually for visits of Brighton and Real Madrid at the weekend and more will be allowed for the competitive kick-off on Saturday with an allocation just under half of the stadium capacity. Unsuccessful applicants will be given an online-stream pass.

Motherwell have also been granted a similar proportion of Fir Park to use for Hibs’ visit on Sunday with 6,500 – including 2000 away fans – allowed in the 13,600-capacity stadium.

However Hearts have a significantly lower allowance. Despite Tynecastle holding 20,100, the Jambos’ first match back in the top-flight, against Celtic, will be watched by just 4535 supporters – selected by ballot from the club’s 10,000+ season ticket holders – on Saturday evening. No away fans will be permitted.

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