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## **Rangers F.C. Unveil “James Tavernier” Statue, Honor Star with \$1,000,000 Charitable Donation and Legacy Celebration at Ibrox**
*June 3, 2025 | Glasgow, Scotland*
In a moment that will go down in Rangers history, the club today unveiled a majestic statue of club captain James Tavernier outside Ibrox Stadium — a fitting tribute to a player whose name has become synonymous with leadership, loyalty, and excellence in the famous blue shirt.
But the day was about more than bronze and applause. Rangers F.C. also announced a **\$1,000,000 charitable donation** in Tavernier’s name, directed to causes close to the captain’s heart, including youth mental health, inner-city sports programs, and community development across Glasgow.
### **A Modern Icon Cast in Bronze**
The statue, which captures Tavernier mid-celebration — arms stretched wide, roaring with pride — was revealed in front of a sea of fans, many wearing his iconic No. 2 shirt. Designed by acclaimed sculptor Andy Scott, the piece took over ten months to craft and was funded by a combination of club supporters, sponsors, and private donors.
Club chairman John Bennett described the tribute as “a permanent reminder of what commitment, class, and courage look like in a Rangers jersey.”
> “James Tavernier is more than a footballer. He’s a symbol of everything Rangers stands for — resilience, respect, and responsibility. Today, we honor not only his achievements but his enduring influence.”
### **Giving Back in a Big Way**
The \$1,000,000 donation — made through the **Rangers Charity Foundation** — will fund several key initiatives, including:
* **Tavernier Youth Leadership Academy**, launching this fall in Govan
* Mental health outreach in partnership with local schools and clinics
* Facility upgrades for grassroots football clubs in underfunded areas
Tavernier, visibly moved during the ceremony, thanked the club, fans, and his family for their unwavering support:
> “This statue… it’s overwhelming. I came to Glasgow as a young man with a dream. This club made me a leader, a champion, and a better person. I’m forever grateful — and proud that today we’re using this moment to help others.”
### **A Captain. A Champion. A Legend.**
Since signing in 2015, Tavernier has captained Rangers through one of the most transformative decades in club history. His resume includes:
* Over **450 appearances**
* More than **100 goals** — a rare feat for a defender
* Leading the team to the **2020–21 Premiership title** undefeated
* Captaining the squad to the **Europa League final in 2022**
* Multiple Player of the Year awards and club honors
Despite being linked with a potential coaching future, Tavernier hinted that he still has more to give on the pitch:
> “I’m not done yet. There are more trophies to lift, more memories to make.”
### **Fans Reflect, Club Looks Forward**
Supporters gathered from across the UK and beyond, some even camping overnight to witness the unveiling. Fan group leader Linda MacGregor called the tribute “long overdue,” saying, “He’s our captain, our leader, our legend. This statue makes it official.”
As the sun set behind Ibrox and chants of *“There’s only one James Tavernier!”* echoed across the concourse, it was clear this wasn’t just about honoring a footballer — it was about celebrating a legacy still in motion.
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