Family of Rangers fan Christopher Potter who died in Turkey left 'emotional' at 40th minute applause tribute

The wife of a Rangers fan who died in Turkey after travelling to support his team has spoken of her “overwhelming emotion” after fans paid tribute with a minute’s applause at Ibrox.

Christopher Potter travelled to Istanbul ahead of the Glasgow club’s clash with Fenerbahce in the Europa League last Thursday.

The Dennistoun man passed away after a road traffic accident in the Turkish city.

Ahead of Thursday night’s Europa League match against Fenerbache, Mr Potter’s wife Holly, alongside children Jak, 20, Millie, 13, and Teddy, six, were invited to Ibrox by the club.

Thousands of Rangers fans paid tribute to Mr Potter, with a rousing applause during the 40th minute of the game. Banners were also held up which read: “With the angels you’ll be singing, our very special friend. Christopher Potter 1984-2025.”

After the dramatic match, which Rangers won following a penalty shootout, six-year-old Teddy was allowed to go pitchside, where he got a photo with his hero Jack Butland, received a pair of goalkeeper gloves from Alan McGregor, and met club legend Brian Laudrup – Christopher’s favourite player of all time.

Christopher's children were invited to Ibrox as tributes were paid to their dad. — Christopher’s children were invited to Ibrox as tributes were paid to their dad. Supplied

Holly said: “I was totally overwhelmed at the outpouring of emotion on the 40th minute last night.

“The Rangers family really came together, and I know Christopher would have been chuffed to bits to see how they paid their respects. Credit to the Fenerbahce fans for joining in too.

“I have to thank all the players from the bottom of my heart. After the game Teddy got to go down pitchside, and he got to meet his Rangers hero Jack Butland and get a photo.

“Jack also gave him his top from last night, and all the players signed it.

“The message on it said: ‘That was for you Teddy’.

“I can’t thank them enough, and I know Christopher would have been absolutely buzzing Teddy got to meet Brian Laudrup, his favourite player of all time.

“Allan McGregor also gave Teddy a pair of signed goalie gloves.

“A huge thank you to everyone at Rangers, not just the players, but all the staff who were so kind and respectful.

“Chistopher would have been so proud of Teddy, and Jak and Millie, last night.

“Obviously the pain we are all feeling at the moment is indescribable, but there is some comfort knowing how well loved and well-thought of Christopher was.”

A fundraiser set up to support his family has since raised £180,000. Rangers captain James Tavernier, interim manager Barry Ferguson and goalie Jack Butland were amongst those who donated to the appeal.