Today’s match marks an important occasion and a welcome return of the gesture from our previous meeting in Motherwell (a 3–2 win for the Bairns it is worth mentioning…apologies Well fans!) as Falkirk FC and Motherwell FC come together once again to celebrate fan ownership. It is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the vital role supporters play at both clubs in shaping the future of our teams. Alongside Hearts and St Mirren, our clubs proudly form a group of fan-owned sides competing at the top level of Scottish football – it firmly puts to bed the idea that fan ownership cannot succeed.
Earlier this year, we were delighted to join the celebrations on ‘Well Society Day’, where Motherwell kindly invited 11 of our FSS Youth Members to walk the team out at Fir Park. It was brilliant to see both clubs represented by our young people, who we know will continue to back their teams from the stands, and potentially one day in the boardroom, for generations to come. We are equally pleased now to return the gesture today, with 11 Junior Steel Members joining 11 FSS Youth Members as mascots for this afternoon’s match. We are sure they will all have a memorable and special day.
At Falkirk, fan ownership sits at the heart of everything we do. Through the Falkirk Supporters Society and the Patrons Group, supporters have come together with a shared commitment to invest in the long-term future of the club. This ensures that fans have a meaningful and influential voice in how we are run, and we are already seeing the positive impact that this collective voice can have. Together, we are building a club that reflects the values and ambitions of the Falkirk FC community.
More broadly, fan ownership represents a powerful opportunity within Scottish football. It offers a sustainable and community-focused alternative to traditional private ownership models which places supporters (and not short-term interests) at the centre of decision-making. With four fan-owned clubs now competing at the highest level, there is a genuine opportunity to work collaboratively and influence the game for the better. That is why days like today matter, as we strengthen the relationships between our clubs, supporters, and fan ownership groups, to help drive meaningful and lasting change.
Today is a celebration, but it is also a reminder. Fan ownership thrives when supporters choose to get involved. Whether you are here backing Falkirk or Motherwell, you have the opportunity to play your part. By joining the Falkirk Supporters Society or the Well Society, you are helping to shape the future of your club and, by working together, the future of Scottish football.
