UEFA has officially warned FC Porto following the mistreatment of Rangers supporters during their Europa League clash on January 29. The governing body cited a breach of safety regulations after visiting fans were reportedly held inside the Estádio do Dragão for up to two hours after the match.
Match and Incident Details
In the final league phase game, Rangers took an early lead through Djeidi Gassama, but Porto responded with three first-half goals to secure a 3-1 victory. Off the pitch, Rangers expressed dissatisfaction as fans faced prolonged detention post-match. A club statement from January read: "Following the match in Porto, we've received multiple reports from supporters and staff about issues in and around the stadium. That's not what anyone who travelled to support Rangers should have had to deal with, and we share the concern, anger and frustration felt by those affected."
UEFA Action
UEFA's Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body issued a "warning" to Porto for "retention of supporters in the stadium" under Article 46.01(e) of the UEFA Safety and Security Regulations. The decision was announced on June 26, 2026, nearly five months after the incident.
Impact and Context
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about fan safety in European competitions. Porto's warning serves as a formal censure, though no financial penalty or stadium ban was imposed. Rangers had advocated for action to ensure future traveling supporters are treated fairly.
