British Football Fan Dies Ahead of Europa League Game

A heartbreaking twist has rocked the Rangers FC community after a lifelong fan died suddenly while on a dream trip to watch his beloved team play in Europe.

James Scrimgeour, a fiercely loyal Rangers supporter, passed away on Wednesday, 28 January 2026 — just one day before the Glasgow side's Europa League showdown against FC Porto in Portugal. His death was confirmed by a close friend the following day.

A Final Pilgrimage That Ended in Grief

Tony Smeaton, a friend of Scrimgeour's, broke the devastating news in a social media post shared on Thursday morning, revealing that he "passed away peacefully in his sleep."

"He was in Portugal following his lifelong love of Glasgow Rangers FC," Smeaton wrote. "Unfortunately passing before he could watch them tonight. RIP Jim."

Scrimgeour had made the journey to Porto with the hope of cheering on the team he's followed for decades — a passion that would ultimately be his final act.

Outpouring of Grief from the Football Community

The announcement sent shockwaves across the footballing world. Grieving fans and friends flooded social media with tributes, painting a portrait of a man who was gentle, loyal, and deeply loved.

Senga O'Connor expressed her sorrow that Scrimgeour never got the chance to see his team lift the trophy one final time. She remembered him as a "lovely, gentle man" who adored Rangers, adding that he would be deeply missed both within the club and as a cherished friend.

She closed her tribute with a heartfelt farewell, writing, "Rest easy, big fella. Forever red, white and blue."

Elizabeth Park described the loss as "absolutely heartbreaking beyond belief." Thomas Colquhoun added, "Up in heaven, with the angels - you'll be singing follow follow for the Rangers that you loved."

Even supporters from rival clubs joined the chorus of condolences. A Partick Thistle fan, John Smith, extended sympathy, saying, "Rest easy, Teddy Bear, from a Jags fan." Celtic supporter Mick Carr added, "Sorry to hear this. RIEP."

Rangers FC Responds with Official Statement

The club itself acknowledged the tragedy in a solemn post on X, saying they were "extremely saddened" to hear of Scrimgeour's passing and that their "thoughts are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time."

Rangers also confirmed they were in contact with both Portuguese and British authorities to assist in the aftermath.

A Season of Ups and Downs for Rangers

Scrimgeour was among many fans who travelled to Porto to witness the team's final Europa League appearance of the season. Despite a recent home victory against Ludogorets — their first in the campaign — Rangers had already been eliminated from the group stage.

The 3-1 loss in Porto added another blow to a tough European run, despite an early goal from Djeidi Gassama. The match marked a bittersweet chapter under manager Danny Rohl, whose European debut win came just last week.

The club has also played fixtures in Austria, Norway, and Hungary — a campaign that has seen highs and lows, now forever shadowed by a tragic loss.