The “Old Firm” derby — Celtic and Rangers — divides the city of Glasgow, and much of Scotland, at least in footballing terms.
And, it has become known as one of football’s most notorious derbies--a rivalry played out before the backdrop of religion and politics. It is known worldwide.
Known maybe, but no longer watched.
With the rivalry’s four-year respite resulting from Rangers financial woes and subsequent relegation, it appears the fixture has lost some of its luster.
According to Scotland’s Daily Record, ratings data provided by Sky Sports, which broadcast the first league match between the two Glasgow clubs in four years on September 10, the most recent clash didn’t even rate as the most-watched this season in the Scottish Premiership.
Sky reports that the September Old Firm derby drew 321,000 viewers — or 11,000 less than Celtic’s season-opening match at Heart of Midlothian in August. The Daily Record conjectures the ratings shortfall could be due to the fact the match was up against the Manchester Derby the same day.
But it may be more than that. After all, later in the month, BT Sport’s coverage of Celtic’s stunning 3-3 draw against Manchester City in the Champions’ League drew nearly 600,000 viewers.
With Celtic and Rangers scheduled to face off again this Sunday in the League Cup semi-final, it will be interesting to see if viewers around Scotland, and around the world, care enough to tune in.
