Athletic Club Faces Rangers FC Amidst Deep-Rooted Cultural adn Political Rivalry
More than 2,600 Athletic Club supporters are expected in Glasgow for the Europa League quarter-final clash against Rangers FC.The match unfolds against the backdrop of the “Old Firm,” one of Europe’s most intense rivalries, transcending sports to encompass profound cultural, political, and religious dimensions.
Rangers FC: A History Steeped in Unionism and Protestantism
Since its establishment in 1872, Rangers FC has been closely associated with unionism and Protestantism. The club embodies a specific understanding of British, Scottish, and Glaswegian identity. Historically, Rangers maintained a recruitment policy reflecting these values, a stance that, with necessary nuances, mirrors Athletic Club’s own unique ideology.
The Unwritten Rule: Barring Catholic Players
Around 1912, coinciding with Athletic Club’s decision to exclusively field Basque players, Rangers unofficially prohibited the signing of Catholic players. While this policy has since been relaxed,the club’s predominantly Protestant identity and British loyalism remain evident. this stance historically served to counter Celtic, a rival club founded by Irish Catholics who immigrated to Glasgow in the late 19th century.
Migration and the Roots of Division
Driven by Glasgow’s industrial boom, a meaningful migration wave from Ireland to Scotland occurred. Protestant Scots from Ulster, alongside local advocates of British monarchical traditions, solidified Rangers as the antithesis to the Catholic and pro-Irish republican Celtic. The Irish identity, therefore, isn’t exclusive to Celtic, as the migrated Northern Irish community constituted a considerable portion of Rangers’ fanbase.
The Old Firm: A Rivalry Defining Glasgow
The conflict born of origin and religion was further polarized by the two football clubs. The Old Firm rivalry became a societal taboo in Scotland,concealing ideological partisanship still visible in the streets. In Glasgow, sporting allegiance frequently enough reflects political and religious affiliation, highlighting tradition at its most profound and divisive.
The End of the Ban and Modern Challenges
For decades,the unwritten rule against signing catholic players defined Rangers’ sectarian identity.Implemented in the 1910s, the ban persisted untill 1989, when Mo Johnston, formerly of Celtic, was signed in a landmark decision. The end of the veto, met with resistance by some fans, stemmed more from competitive necessity than genuine change of heart.
Graeme Souness and a New Era
A key figure in this shift was Graeme Souness, a Scottish legend who argued for acquiring the best players available for Rangers. This led to a period of significant spending, culminating in liquidation and reformation in 2012. The club’s recovery was fueled by unwavering fan loyalty. As Athletic Club, deeply committed to its own traditions, ventures into Scotland, it encounters a land where tradition profoundly shapes even the game of football.
Beyond the ancient religious and political divides, how does the modern fan experience at a Rangers FC match reflect the enduring legacy of the “old Firm” rivalry for visiting teams like Athletic Club?
Athletic Club Faces Rangers FC Amidst Deep-Rooted Cultural and Political Rivalry: Q&A
To help you better understand the context of the upcoming Europa League match, here’s a breakdown of the key themes and questions surrounding the game.
frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Old Firm” derby and why is it so significant?
The ”Old Firm” is the intense rivalry between Rangers FC and Celtic FC. It transcends sport, encompassing cultural, political, and religious dimensions, making it one of the most heated rivalries in the world. Think of it like the Super Bowl, but with centuries of history and identity woven into every match.
What are the historical roots of Rangers FC’s identity?
Rangers FC has a long-standing association with unionism, Protestantism, and British identity. Historically, this was reflected in the club’s recruitment policies and fan base, rooted in the late 19th-century migration from Ireland and the resulting social divisions in Glasgow.
What was the “unwritten rule” regarding Catholic players?
Around 1912, Rangers unofficially barred the signing of Catholic players. This policy, which lasted until 1989, was a reflection of the club’s Protestant identity and was partly in response to their rivals, Celtic, which was founded by Irish Catholics.
How did migration contribute to the rivalry?
The influx of Irish immigrants to Glasgow fueled the rivalry. Protestant Scots, along with supporters of British traditions, solidified Rangers’ identity in opposition to the Catholic and pro-Irish republican sentiments associated with celtic.
When did the ban on Catholic players end,and why?
the ban officially ended in 1989 with the signing of Mo Johnston. The decision was more driven by competitive needs than a genuine shift in the club’s ethos, spearheaded by figures like Graeme Souness.
What is Athletic club’s connection to this rivalry?
Athletic Club, known for its own unique identity of fielding exclusively Basque players, now faces Rangers FC. This match provides a captivating clash of cultures and traditions, even though the clubs themselves don’t share the same historical baggage.
Trivia and advice
- Did you know? The term “Old Firm” is believed to have originated after a notably heated cup final in 1904.
- Tip: When discussing this rivalry, be mindful of the sensitive historical and cultural context.
As Athletic Club steps onto the pitch in Glasgow, they enter a world where football is deeply intertwined with history and identity. this match is more than just a game; it’s a glimpse into the profound traditions that shape the stunning game.
