THE Scottish FA are to set up an Independent Commission to investigate the Hampden riot in the aftermath of Saturday’s Scottish Cup final.
Hibernian lifted the silverware for the first time in 114 years as they beat Rangers 3-2 on a dramatic day at the National Stadium. But the celebrations were marred by a pitch invasion from Hibs fans as Gers players and staff were assaulted at the final whistle.
READ MORE: Police say their response to Scottish Cup final fan trouble was 'proportionate and professional'
A series of battles then broke out amongst rival supporters before Police Scotland were able to bring the situation under control and Alan Stubbs’ side could be presented with their medals.
Rangers issued a hard-hitting statement on Sunday evening as they criticised the SFA, Hibernian and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon for their reaction to the riots.
READ MORE: Hibs pledge to do "everything in its power" to find those involved in Hampden violence
And chief executive Stewart Regan has now called for calm as Hampden chiefs look to probe the ugly scenes which tarnished a day to remember for Hibs.
He said: “The Scottish FA has today initiated the process of appointing an Independent Commission to investigate the circumstances of Saturday’s Scottish Cup Final disorder.
“A chairperson will be appointed in early course and the commission’s remit will be to review all operational matters relating to the event hosting of the final. It will be convened to analyse the processes and protocols undertaken in the staging of the match and I would encourage all relevant stakeholders to contribute to it.
“In the interests of transparency, the commission’s findings will also be published in full.
“In addition, the Scottish FA’s Compliance Officer has also started the process of investigating potential rule breaches from a football regulatory perspective.
"It should be pointed out that as the cup final is now subject to a criminal investigation by Police Scotland, we will share all information gleaned so far with them.
“I have also instructed the compilation of a comprehensive report from all our internal group functions at Hampden Park to establish a full picture of the events of the weekend. The contents of this report will be made available to the commission.
READ MORE: Police say their response to Scottish Cup final fan trouble was 'proportionate and professional'
“I am keen that the Scottish FA is proactive in the investigations with the police authorities and the Independent Commission.
"In the meantime, I would urge all parties involved in the ongoing situation to demonstrate calmness, clarity of thought and responsibility as we proceed towards a satisfactory conclusion.”
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