Former Rangers striker and respected pundit Ally McCoist has stirred controversy across Scottish football after voicing strong concerns about the SPFL and its handling of the post-split fixtures.
His remarks have reignited debates about fairness, balance, and whether the current system unintentionally benefits Celtic.
The release of the final fixture list for the 2025–26 Scottish Premiership campaign has sparked intense discussion among supporters, especially with Rangers, Hearts, and Celtic all still firmly in the title race.
How the Controversy Started
In Scotland’s top flight, the league splits into two sections after 33 matches, with the top six sides facing each other once more to determine the final standings. While the system is designed to create drama and competitive balance, this season’s fixture distribution has raised eyebrows.
Celtic are set to play the majority of their remaining matches at home, including a potentially decisive final-day showdown. Meanwhile, Rangers face a tougher run with more away trips, and Hearts must travel for a crucial final fixture.
This uneven spread of home advantage has become the central issue, with many arguing it could influence the outcome of the title race.
McCoist Speaks Out
While working in Paris covering the Champions League, McCoist didn’t hold back when discussing the fixture list. He openly questioned whether the scheduling was fair, suggesting it looked as though Celtic had been handed a significant boost at a critical stage of the season.
His comments, implying that Celtic might be benefiting from how the fixtures have been arranged, quickly gained traction online. Fans and pundits alike weighed in, turning an already tense title race into a heated off-field debate.
SPFL Defends the Process
The SPFL has pushed back against the criticism, with Chief Operating Officer Calum Beattie explaining that fixture planning is far from simple.
According to the league, multiple factors are considered, ranging from policing requirements and broadcast schedules to stadium availability and overall seasonal balance. The aim is for each club to finish the campaign having played an equal number of home and away matches.
However, the timing of those fixtures, particularly in the decisive closing stages, can still create perceived advantages, which critics argue is exactly what’s happening now.
Divided Fan Reaction
Supporters have been split in their response. Celtic fans have largely embraced the schedule, seeing it as a chance to capitalize on home support during the run-in. Many believe it sets up a dramatic and potentially perfect route to the title.
On the other hand, Rangers and Hearts fans have voiced frustration, with some claiming the fixture list feels unbalanced at a crucial point in the season. Social media has been flooded with debate, with accusations of bias becoming a major talking point.
Pundits Disagree
Not everyone agrees with McCoist. Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton dismissed the criticism, arguing that the split system has always been known and that fixture swings tend to even out over a full season.
Meanwhile, Hearts manager Derek McInnes took a calmer stance, insisting that performances on the pitch will ultimately decide the title, not where the matches are played.
Title Race Reaches Boiling Point
With Hearts currently leading and both Rangers and Celtic close behind, the Premiership is heading for a dramatic finish. Every match now carries huge significance, and the added layer of controversy has only intensified the spotlight.
There is even the possibility of Hearts securing a historic title win, something not achieved since 1960, potentially on Celtic’s own turf, adding even more intrigue to the story.
What Comes Next
As the final fixtures approach, all eyes will be on how the drama unfolds. Celtic’s home advantage, Rangers’ resilience on the road, and Hearts’ consistency at the top will all be tested.
Whether or not the fixture controversy fades or grows louder remains to be seen. One thing is certain: questions around fairness and competitive balance will continue to shadow the title race right up until the final whistle.
