The 2025/26 Scottish Premiership season is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing yet. With Celtic powering into the campaign after a dominant double-winning season, and Rangers under new ownership and leadership, the title race is poised to ignite fiercely. Yet beyond the well-known giants, there's a hidden narrative brewing.
Celtic remains the firm favorite to retain their crown — having won the Premiership and League Cup double last season. Brendan Rodgers has built a consistently high-performing side, and their early-season form continues to inspire confidence.
Meanwhile, Rangers are on a mission. A takeover by a U.S. consortium has just injected £20 million into the club, signaling renewed ambition. With manager Russell Martin at the helm, Rangers aim to challenge Celtic on both domestic and European fronts.
While Hearts seldom dominate headlines, this season could mark their moment. Club owner Tony Bloom, known for his data-driven successes (think Brighton, Union St-Gilloise), has already invested significantly and set ambitious targets — calling for Hearts to consistently challenge for the Scottish title within the next decade.
As a result, betting odds and pundits place Hearts third overall, calling them the standout dark horse in a league long dominated by the Old Firm.
Projected Title Chances (based on advanced, behind-the-scenes analysis):
Celtic: ~55–60% — favored for consistent performance and depth.
Rangers: ~25–30% — backed by fresh investment and new direction.
Hearts (dark horse): ~10–15% — buoyed by analytical backing and rising structure.
It's no surprise to expect Celtic and Rangers to finish first and second, but Hearts is increasingly being seen as a genuine threat.
Beyond the top three, clubs like Aberdeen also hold interest. Their 2024–25 season featured a Scottish Cup win that secured them European football — a platform to build from. Managing dual campaigns is a challenge, though, and consistency remains key.
Scotland’s football landscape has been defined by Celtic and Rangers for decades, but the 2025/26 season carries a different energy. Financial investments, leadership shifts, and analytical ownership are redefining what’s possible.
Celtic remain the titans.
Rangers are eager to reclaim dominance.
Hearts, with strategic backing, are emerging as the most intriguing contender outside the Old Firm.
This season could prove that even in historically stagnant leagues, calculated ambition can spark real disruption.
Australia , Brisbane