Hearts, Rangers & Aberdeen confirm vaccine passports still required despite 'grace period'

Hearts, Rangers and Aberdeen have confirmed fans must show proof of double vaccination this weekend despite the Scottish government's "grace period" over enforcing the certification scheme.

From Friday, over 18s will be subject to vaccine passport spot checks to attend games with crowds above 10,000.

The system will not be enforced by Scottish government until 18 October.

But clubs say fans must still prove they have had both vaccine doses.

Hearts host Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership on Saturday, while Aberdeen's midday Sunday meeting with Celtic is followed by Rangers at home to Hibernian.

Hearts sought clarification from the Scottish government and said: "Unfortunately, any person failing to prove their vaccine certification or exemption status will, in compliance with the law, be refused entry."

Rangers say their match with Hibs is a "test event" and they are therefore "required by law to carry out the same procedures as when the grace period is over".

Aberdeen added: "We are obliged to follow Scottish government legislation and would like to thank supporters in advance for their co-operation and understanding."

All three clubs have urged fans who are exempt from vaccination to bring proof.