Day after Scotland’s first 2026 World Cup match set to be bank holiday

The day after Scotland’s first match in the 2026 World Cup is set to be a national bank holiday north of the border.

First Minister John Swinney has proposed that Monday June 15 be designated a national bank holiday to mark Scotland’s participation in the tournament for the first time since 1998.

The Scotland men’s national team will have their first fixture against Haiti on Sunday June 14 – with kick-off at 2am UK time.

There will be late-night finishes for Scotland’s other group-stage matches, which both begin at 11pm.

The First Minister said: “Scotland qualifying for the men’s World Cup was a remarkable achievement and a landmark moment, and the reaction to the dramatic win against Denmark reminded us all what football means to the country.

“This year, we want to make the most of this huge opportunity for Scotland and ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to celebrate the team’s success.

“Not only is this an historic sporting event, it’s also a chance for Scotland to be on the world stage, to attract business development, create tourism interest within the country and to make cultural and sporting connections.

“That is why I am taking steps to ensure the Monday after our opening game should be a national bank holiday so that – no matter the outcome of the match – we can all come together to share the occasion.”

Mr Swinney has previously said the Scottish Government will work closely with local authorities on extended pub opening hours on the days Scotland are playing.

Powers over bank holidays are devolved to the Scottish Parliament.

Bank holidays can be appointed in Scotland by royal proclamation, with the First minister advising the Privy Council.

Scottish Tory leader Russell Findlay supported the move, but suggested it could be the First Minister’s “most expensive pre-election bribe to date”.

“It would be churlish to oppose this given the achievement of the Scotland men’s team in reaching the World Cup finals,” he said in response to Monday’s announcement.

“I’ll be glued in the wee small hours like everyone else to our first match but it appears John Swinney has given the green light for a two-day hangover in Scotland.

“However, there is a serious point to be made about why the First Minister has decided to do this. Given we’re now in an election year, the cynic in me thinks this is his most expensive pre-election bribe to date.”

While Scottish Lib Dem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton urged Mr Swinney to go further.

“The Scottish Government needs to go further to help make sure pubs get late-night licences to show the Scotland games,” he said.

“Your local grassroots rugby or tennis club should be allowed to open up too because I’m sure their members would pack them out, even at 2am.

“We’ve already had fantastic support from the pub trade for our proposals. It’s time to make this a summer to remember.”