Patrick Stewart, Kevin Thelwell Sacked as Rangers Act Swiftly

Rangers have announced the immediate dismissal of chief executive Patrick Stewart and sporting director Kevin Thelwell following weeks of internal pressure and growing unrest among the club’s supporters.

The decision follows a turbulent start to the season in which Rangers had a string of subpar domestic performances under former manager Russell Martin, along with disappointing Champions League and Europa League departures.

Many supporters questioned the team’s direction and the lack of progress in important areas, and the club’s summer transfer business came under special scrutiny.

In recent months, protests have been held both inside and outside Ibrox, while both Patrick Stewart and Thelwell were confronted by fans on several occasions. Despite this, the pair publicly admitted only last month that, while mistakes had been made, they had no intention of resigning.

Thelwell, who had previously served as Everton’s director of football, joined Rangers in April 2025. Stewart, meanwhile, was appointed CEO in November 2024, meaning his departure comes just one day short of a full year in the role.It is understood that a groundswell of fan anger played a significant role in the decision to remove both men from their positions, with the Rangers board feeling decisive action was needed to stabilise the club and restore confidence among supporters.

Chairman Andrew Cavenagh and vice-chairman Paraag Marathe will now oversee the search for their replacements, with the recruitment process already under way.

Speaking on the decision, Cavenagh said:

“When we think about what we need from these roles, it’s different to who we think Patrick Stewart and Kevin are. We want people who align with our vision for the next chapter.I will not throw dirt on either of them — I think very highly of them both. The reality is, the club needs different things today than it did six months ago.”

He added that while the process to find replacements had begun, the board would prioritise quality and fit over speed.

In the interim, Fraser Thornton, a senior director at the club, has been appointed acting CEO while Rangers look to steady the ship both on and off the pitch.