Scottish football has never felt more alive.
Fans across the country have turned out in record-breaking numbers for the third season running, as the SPFL confirms that over 5.3 million supporters passed through the turnstiles during the 2024-25 campaign.
The total attendance reached an astonishing 5,336,353, surpassing last season’s figure by nearly 185,000.
It is the highest attendance recorded in the SPFL era, and a ringing endorsement of the passion that runs through Scotland’s national game.
From the drama of promotion battles to the fierce fight for European places and the heartbreak of relegation scraps, the season delivered storylines that gripped supporters to the very last whistle.
In a heartfelt statement, league chiefs paid tribute to the supporters who continue to bring colour, energy and life to stadiums up and down the country.
Their loyalty, week in and week out, has been the beating heart of Scottish football’s resurgence.
The SPFL also extended its thanks to the clubs, Police Scotland, matchday staff, and all those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to keep games running smoothly throughout a thrilling campaign.
However, while the vast majority of fans have been praised for their outstanding conduct, the league issued a stern warning to the small minority whose reckless behaviour threatens the safety and reputation of the sport.
The SPFL condemned dangerous acts such as flares, fireworks, smoke bombs, missile throwing and pitch invasions, which have marred some fixtures.
These incidents put players, staff and fellow supporters at risk and, as the league made clear, are entirely unacceptable.
One shocking example occurred at Tannadice Park, where Aberdeen’s Jack Mackenzie was injured after a chair was thrown onto the pitch.
The league described the incident as appalling, emphasising that every person inside a stadium has the right to safety.
Swift cooperation between clubs, supporters and Police Scotland led to the identification of the alleged culprit, who has since appeared in court.
The league highlighted this as a textbook example of how authorities and fans can work together to uphold safety standards.
Similarly, Livingston acted decisively when an individual allegedly spat at a member of Ross County’s coaching staff, handing down a lifetime ban.
The SPFL applauded the club’s swift and firm response.
In light of recent incidents, the league has reiterated its support for wider use of Football Banning Orders (FBOs) to tackle persistent disorder.
Working closely with Police Scotland, clubs and the Scottish Government, the SPFL is backing efforts to expand the scope of these orders, ensuring tougher consequences for those who jeopardise the matchday experience.
Encouragingly, the Scottish Government included proposals for strengthening FBOs in its Programme for Government this May, a move welcomed by the league.
During the season, the SPFL took disciplinary action against several clubs and has now issued formal notices of complaint to Partick Thistle, Aberdeen and Celtic for incidents that occurred towards the end of the campaign.
Looking ahead, the SPFL is preparing for a series of meetings with supporter groups and key stakeholders over the summer.
The goal is simple: to listen, to learn, and to work together to create a safe, welcoming and enjoyable environment for every supporter.
Scottish football’s loyal fans remain its lifeblood.
They deserve nothing less.
