US EditionScotland's first minister John Swinney announces bank holiday to celebrate World Cup
The holiday aims to boost national pride and economic benefits as Scotland returns to the FIFA World Cup after 28 years, with the opening match on June 14 in Boston.
- First Minister John Swinney announced Monday, June 15, 2026, as a potential bank holiday in Scotland during his New Year election speech, if approved.
- Scotland's return to the finals follows a 4-2 win over Denmark at Hampden Park, Glasgow, ending a 28-year absence since France 1998.
- Speaking in Glasgow, Mr Swinney said he had written to the Privy Council proposing the Monday after the opening game be a bank holiday.
- If approved, the holiday would be appointed by Royal Proclamation under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971 and Scotland Act 1998, with King Charles expected to declare it.
- With a 2am UK kick-off, many fans say a bank holiday will be welcomed as the Scottish Greens and tourism and business sectors highlight its potential to boost tourism and development.
37 Articles
37 Articles
Scotland's football fans are looking forward to the World Cup comeback of their national team. But its opening game in the USA runs for everyone watching in their home country in the middle of the night. Head of Government John Swinney is now making a promise.
The Scottish football fans are looking forward to the first World Cup game since 1998. This is also to be celebrated extensively.
The notorious Scottish football fans are looking forward to the first World Cup game since 1998. The game against Haiti is in the middle of the night. The head of government, especially in the election campaign, has a plan: a free day to boost the economy.
Scotland has been playing for the first time in the World Cup for 28 years. According to Head of Government John Swinney, this circumstance is to be celebrated extensively.
The Independent
Scotland set for new public holiday in celebration of World Cup return
New bank holiday to mark mens national team playing in the World Cup for the first time since 1998
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