Celtic supporters coach bursts into flames after suspected vandalism following Rangers defeat

A Celtic supporters coach was engulfed in flames on the A728 near Glasgow’s Emirates Arena at around 2:30pm on Sunday, shortly after Rangers claimed victory at Celtic Park in the second Old Firm meeting in a week. Police Scotland confirmed that all passengers evacuated safely and no injuries were reported.

The bus, believed to belong to the Motherwell 9 in a Row CSC, is hired from McLean’s Coaches of Airdrie. The fire started at the rear of the vehicle and spread rapidly, sending thick smoke into the air before the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service brought the blaze under control. The coach was subsequently loaded onto a recovery lorry.

McLean’s Coaches issued a statement acknowledging the severity of the incident, noting that passengers included families and young children. “We fully appreciate how frightening the incident must have been for everyone involved,” the company said. “Based on the initial information and images we have received, we have reason to believe the incident may have been caused by vandalism.”

The firm was careful to clarify the scope of that claim: “To be absolutely clear, this is not an allegation against the passengers or the supporters’ club. The matter has been reported to the relevant authorities, who are investigating the circumstances.”

On the pitch, Ryan Naderi scored the winner for Rangers, compounding a difficult afternoon for Celtic supporters. Despite the defeat, Celtic remain top of the Scottish Premiership on 18 points, with Rangers two points behind. Both clubs now enter an international break, with Celtic’s next fixture away at Motherwell and Rangers hosting Kilmarnock at Ibrox when domestic action resumes in three weeks.