Scotland has June 15 as a public holiday to mark its return to the World Cup. The decision was officially made following a royal proclamation formally approved by King Charles III.
“…To celebrate the achievement of the Scottish men’s football team participating in the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 28 years, we consider it appropriate that Monday, the fifteenth day of June in the year 2026, is a public holiday in Scotland,” the Buckingham Palace proclamation said.
“We therefore hereby, in accordance with section 1(3) of the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971, hereby designate Monday, the fifteenth day of June in the year 2026, as a public holiday in Scotland.”
Scotland defeated Denmark 4–2 to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, their first qualification since 1998.
“This year we want to make the most of this huge opportunity for Scotland and ensure that as many people as possible have the chance to celebrate the team’s success,” said Scottish First Minister John Swinney.
“Not only is this a historic sporting event, but it is also an opportunity for Scotland to be on the world stage, attract business development, create tourism interest in the country and build cultural and sporting connections.
“That is why I am taking steps to ensure that the Monday after our opening match should be a national holiday so that – regardless of the outcome of the match – we can all come together to share the occasion.”
Scotland are drawn at the World Cup with Brazil, Morocco and Haiti and open their campaign against Haiti, which returns to the tournament after half a century.
Published on February 5, 2026
