Explore the rich and storied timeline of Rangers F.C., one of the most successful and honored football clubs in Scotland. From its founding in 1872 through numerous league titles and memorable European campaigns, delve into the key moments that have shaped the club's legacy. This timeline provides a detailed look at Rangers' journey, highlighting their triumphs, challenges, and the iconic players and managers who have contributed to their storied past.
Rangers F.C. won their first ever Scottish League Championship in the 1898–99 season, completing the league without a loss. This marked the beginning of Rangers' dominance in Scottish football, setting the stage for future successes, as the club would go on to win numerous additional league titles over the next decades.
In March 1872, four young men, brothers Moses and Peter McNeil, along with their friends William McBeath and Peter Campbell, founded Rangers Football Club. Rangers played their first ever match as a team in May 1872, against Callander F.C. at Flesher's Haugh in Glasgow Green, which ended in a 0–0 draw. The club has grown to become one of the most successful football clubs in the world.
On May 24, 1972, Rangers F.C. secured their first and only European trophy by winning the European Cup Winners' Cup. The final was played in the Camp Nou, Barcelona, where they faced Dynamo Moscow and won 3–2. Willie Johnston scored twice, securing a historic win for the club. This victory remains one of the most significant achievements in the club's history.
Graeme Souness was appointed player-manager of Rangers in 1986, and his tenure marked a period of significant transformation and success for the club. On April 6, 1988, Rangers won the Scottish Premier Division, marking a turning point in Scottish football, as Souness was instrumental in abolishing the outdated practice of forbidding Rangers from signing Catholic players, permanently changing the club's culture.
In the 1992–93 season, Rangers F.C. participated in the inaugural UEFA Champions League, being drawn in a group with teams such as Olympique de Marseille. Rangers were unbeaten in the group stages and narrowly missed out on a place in the final. This participation signaled the club's strong presence in European football.
In the 1998–99 season, Rangers F.C. achieved a domestic treble by winning the Scottish Premier League, Scottish Cup, and Scottish League Cup. This was a remarkable achievement, showcasing the club's dominance in Scottish football. This season was also notable for being the club's 50th league title, a milestone not achieved by any other club at the time.
Due to financial difficulties and administration issues, Rangers F.C. were liquidated in 2012 and subsequently demoted to the lowest tier of Scottish football. On July 14, 2012, they were admitted into the Third Division for the 2012–13 season, marking the start of a challenging journey back to the top tier. Their absence in the top division marked a significant era in Scottish football.
After four years in the lower divisions, Rangers F.C. secured promotion back to the Scottish Premiership on April 5, 2016. This marked the club's return to the top tier following their relegation due to financial turmoil. The promotion was celebrated by fans and signified the beginning of a new era for the club as they aimed to reclaim their former glory in Scottish football.
On March 7, 2021, Rangers F.C. clinched their 55th Scottish League title, ending Celtic's run of nine consecutive titles. Under the management of Steven Gerrard, Rangers completed the season in dominant fashion, going unbeaten in the league. This historic title win was celebrated widely by the club's supporters, marking a revival of the club's historic success.
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