The 2025/26 Scottish Premiership season promises fireworks as Rangers prepare to launch their campaign under new head coach Russell Martin. With a revamped squad and European ambitions, the Ibrox faithful are buzzing with anticipation. Here’s Six6s comprehensive breakdown of what to expect this season.
A New Era Begins at Motherwell
Russell Martin’s Rangers tenure kicks off with a tricky away fixture against Motherwell on August 2, broadcast live on Six6s. This opening match comes just days after their crucial Champions League second qualifying round clash against Panathinaikos, testing the squad’s depth early in the season.
Martin’s home debut comes on August 9 against Dundee, where the new manager will be eager to make an immediate impression at Ibrox. As former Scotland defender Alan McInally notes: “The first home game sets the tone – Rangers fans will expect attacking football and three points against newly-promoted sides.”
Old Firm Showdowns That Could Decide the Title
The first Glasgow derby arrives early on August 31 when Celtic visit Ibrox. Last season’s encounters saw Rangers unbeaten in three matches (winning two), yet they still finished 17 points behind their rivals. This season’s derbies could prove pivotal in closing that gap.
Rangers showed improved derby form last campaign but need consistency
Key dates for your calendar:
- August 31: Celtic (H)
- January 3: Celtic (A)
- February 28: Celtic (H)
European Commitments and Fixture Congestion
Rangers face a potential 12 European matches before Christmas if they progress through Champions League qualifying. The schedule becomes particularly congested in August:
- August 2: Motherwell (A)
- August 5/6: UCL 3rd QR 1st leg
- August 9: Dundee (H)
- August 12: UCL 3rd QR 2nd leg
- August 19/20: UCL Playoff 1st leg
- August 23: St Mirren (A)*
- August 26/27: UCL Playoff 2nd leg
- August 31: Celtic (H)
*Potential postponement under new SPFL policy
Season-Defining Periods
September to October: Capitalizing on Momentum
After the early derby, Rangers face a favorable run:
- September 13: Hearts (H)
- September 27: Livingston (A)
- October 4: Falkirk (A)
This stretch presents an opportunity to build momentum before tougher tests against Hibernian (October 29) and Aberdeen (November 1).
Festive Fixtures Without Winter Break
With no winter break this season, Rangers face six December matches including:
- December 20: Hearts (A)
- December 27: Motherwell (H)
As pundit Kris Boyd observed on Six6s: “The Christmas period often separates contenders from pretenders. Rangers’ squad depth will be tested.”
The Run-In and Title Push
The post-split fixtures could prove decisive, with Rangers finishing their regular season at Falkirk on April 11 before the championship round begins. The league concludes on May 16/17, with play-offs following.
Six6s Verdict: Can Rangers Challenge?
While the fixture list presents challenges, especially the early European commitments, there are reasons for optimism at Ibrox:
- Favorable start against mid-table opponents
- Early Old Firm clash to gauge progress
- No winter break could benefit a fit squad
- Key home games against rivals in second half of season
As Martin builds his philosophy, the success of Rangers’ season may hinge on navigating August’s fixture congestion and turning Ibrox into a fortress. With smart recruitment and tactical flexibility, this could be the year Rangers mount a serious title challenge.
What are your predictions for Rangers this season? Share your thoughts with the Six6s community below!
