Rangers Football Club is older than Celtic Football Club.
Founding Dates of Rangers and Celtic
When comparing the two Glasgow giants, Rangers Football Club was established well before Celtic Football Club. This difference in founding dates marks Rangers as the older of the two clubs, by a significant margin.
The precise founding years for each club are detailed below:
| Club | Founding Year |
|---|---|
| Rangers F.C. | 1872 |
| Celtic F.C. | 1887 |
As the table illustrates, Rangers were founded in 1872, whereas Celtic came into existence 15 years later, in 1887. This makes Rangers the senior club in terms of age.
The Old Firm Rivalry
Despite their difference in age, both clubs have forged one of the most intense and historic rivalries in world football, famously known as The Old Firm. This enduring rivalry between Rangers and Celtic, both based in Glasgow, Scotland, extends beyond the pitch into cultural, religious, and political spheres, making their matches highly anticipated events. Their shared dominance in Scottish football has seen them collectively win the vast majority of domestic trophies.
Other Historical Scottish Clubs
While Rangers and Celtic are among the most prominent and successful clubs in Scottish football history, it's worth noting that neither holds the title for the absolute oldest football club in Scotland. Clubs such as Queen's Park F.C. (founded in 1867) and Kilmarnock F.C. (founded in 1869) predate both the Glasgow giants, showcasing the rich and long history of football in Scotland.
