UEFA Issues Statement on Barry Ferguson’s Post-Match Comments, Signals Disciplinary Action
In the aftermath of Rangers’ 2-0 Europa League quarter-final defeat to Athletic Bilbao on April 17, 2025, UEFA has released a statement addressing controversial remarks made by Rangers interim manager Barry Ferguson during his post-match interview. The governing body has confirmed that Ferguson faces disciplinary proceedings for comments deemed to violate its regulations, with punishment looming that could include a touchline ban or fine.
On April 18, 2025, UEFA announced that it has opened proceedings against Ferguson under Article 15 of its Disciplinary Regulations, which governs improper conduct by players, coaches, or officials. The statement, posted on UEFA’s official disciplinary website, reads: “Proceedings have been opened against Rangers FC interim head coach Barry Ferguson for comments made in the post-match press conference following the UEFA Europa League quarter-final second leg against Athletic Club on 17 April 2025. The Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) will decide on the matter in due course.”
Ferguson’s remarks centered on his belief that Rangers were denied two “clear” penalties during the match at San Mames Stadium. Speaking to RangersTV and reported by sources like the Daily Express, he claimed, “We should’ve had two penalties,” referring to an incident involving a shirt pull on striker Cyriel Dessers by Athletic’s Yeray Alvarez and a potential handball before a shot by Nicolas Raskin hit the post. UEFA considers these statements to have questioned the integrity of referee Irfan Peljto and the officiating team, potentially bringing the game into disrepute.
The match saw Rangers exit the Europa League with a 2-0 aggregate loss, following a 0-0 first-leg draw at Ibrox where they played with 10 men for most of the game. In Bilbao, Athletic secured victory with a penalty from Oihan Sancet just before halftime and a late header by Nico Williams. Ferguson’s frustration was evident in his post-match press conference, where he argued that the non-awarded penalties could have changed the game’s outcome. “The first one changes the dynamic of the game,” he told reporters, a sentiment that resonated with Rangers fans but drew UEFA’s scrutiny.
While Ferguson’s comments reflected his passion for the club, UEFA has a history of cracking down on statements that undermine officials. Precedents include Jose Mourinho’s four-match ban in 2023 for criticizing referee Anthony Taylor after the Europa League final and Sir Alex Ferguson’s €10,000 fine in 2013 for failing to fulfill media obligations after a Champions League match. These cases suggest Ferguson’s punishment could range from a fine to a multi-match touchline ban, depending on the CEDB’s assessment of his intent.
The CEDB is expected to convene within weeks to review Ferguson’s case, with possible sanctions including:
- Touchline Ban: A suspension from the dugout in future UEFA competitions, which would not affect Rangers’ domestic matches but could impact Ferguson’s standing if he remains in charge for the 2025-26 season.
- Fine: A monetary penalty, likely in the range of €5,000 to €20,000, based on similar cases. This would add financial pressure to Rangers amid their ongoing takeover talks.
- Warning: A formal caution, potentially coupled with a suspended sanction, if UEFA deems the breach minor.
Ferguson has the right to request a personal hearing to defend his comments, as Sir Alex Ferguson did in 2013 when contesting an FA charge over referee criticism. However, without a public apology—none has been reported as of April 18, 2025—the CEDB may view his remarks as a direct challenge to officiating integrity, warranting stricter punishment.
The announcement has sparked varied responses. Rangers fans, vocal on platforms like X, have rallied behind Ferguson, with posts arguing that his comments were justified given the perceived officiating errors. One user wrote, “Barry’s only saying what we all saw—UEFA just wants to silence him.” However, others warn that his outburst could harm the club’s reputation, with a fan noting, “He needs to pick his battles. UEFA never lets this slide.”
Media outlets, including the Daily Record, have highlighted Ferguson’s tactical nous in the Bilbao tie but cautioned that the disciplinary issue could overshadow his interim tenure. With Rangers out of European competition and trophyless domestically, Ferguson’s focus is on the remaining Scottish Premiership games. However, a UEFA ban could complicate his bid for the permanent managerial role, especially as the club navigates a leadership transition under new ownership.
