Football has been played for well over a century – and probably a lot longer in some form or another… maybe with a haggis as the ball! Although international success has been somewhat sketchy, it is still a well-loved sport in Scotland. Indeed, the country is home to some of the oldest football clubs on the planet, many of which have played a big role in shaping the modern game.
Here, we will look at the history and significance of these legendary Scottish football clubs.
Queen’s Park F.C. (1867)
Founded in 1867, Queen’s Park Football Club is not only recognised as the oldest football club in Scotland – but it’s one of the oldest in the world. The club, based in Glasgow, played a massive role in the early years of football when it was first developing as a sport.
Although Queen’s Park is known for its amateur status, its traditional Hampden Park stadium is famous within the country. The club has an impressive history – and made contributions to the rules and organisation of the sport in its earliest years.
Kilmarnock F.C. (1869)
Kilmarnock Football Club was established just two years later in 1869 and is one of the oldest professional football clubs in Scotland. The club is based in Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, and has competed in various leagues over the years. Aside from its history within the competitive world of Scottish football, Kilmarnock FC is known for its passionate fan base and its Rugby Park stadium – which has been the club’s home ground since day one.
Rangers F.C. (1872)
Of course, Rangers has to be mentioned! Rangers Football Club, founded in 1872, is another illustrious football team. The club, based in Glasgow, famously has a history of success – and has won lots of league titles and domestic trophies. Simply look at up and UK football betting online and Rangers will always be right up the top for SPL betting (along with Celtic, of course!)
Any Scottish football lover will know that Rangers has one of the largest and most passionate fan followings in the country with people from all over the country heading over to the Ibrox Stadium, one of the iconic football venues in Scotland, on match day to cheer on the squad.
Heart of Midlothian F.C. (1874)
Heart of Midlothian Football Club, or Hearts as most people know it, was first established in 1874 in Edinburgh. They may not be one of the big two clubs, but they have still had a significant presence in the world of Scottish football and have enjoyed lots of success in various competitions.
Tynecastle Park stadium has been home to the club for over a century and is always packed out when the team is in action.
Celtic F.C. (1887)
We also have to mention Celtic Football Club for obvious reasons – one of the most successful teams in the country. It was originally founded back in 1887 in Glasgow and is renowned for its fierce and fearsome rivalry with Rangers – and its legendary history.
Not only has this Scottish club enjoyed domestic victories, but it’s also had some international success as well – winning numerous league titles and even European trophies. Celtic plays its home matches at Celtic Park – one of the most iconic football stadiums in the whole of the UK.
Hibernian F.C. (1875)
Hibernian Football Club, or as most people know it, Hibs, is an Edinburgh-based club that was established in 1875. As is true of most Scottish football teams, the club has a dedicated and fiercely loyal fan base and they have been repaid with a fair bit of success in Scottish football.
Hibs plays its home matches at Easter Road stadium – which has been its home ground since its very first game.
These are just some of the clubs that have played a huge role in Scottish footballing history. There are certainly others that are worthy of a mention – St Mirren FC, Aberdeen FC, Dundee FC and Motherwell FC. All of these clubs have been around for well over 100 years and have helped to shape the game.
Each of these incredible teams has its own unique history and has made its own remarkable contributions to the sport. Scottish football will always be a source of passion and pride for fans around the world… and these clubs are a testament to the role that football continues to play in the country.
