Scotland is officially in the 2026 Football World Cup finals, which will be played in stadia across the North American continent next June and July.
But while exultant at their team’s historic qualification via last night’s jaw-dropping victory over Denmark, Scottish football fans are now considering the practicalities of following a tournament on the other side of the Atlantic.
For those not travelling to Canada, Mexico and the US to attend the games in person, the issues arising are ‘what time will Scotland’s games be broadcast in the UK?’ and ‘will the pubs be open to screen them?’
Following well-reported problems in recent football tournaments held in warmer climates, there is already pressure for 2026’s World Cup games not be scheduled in the heat of American summer afternoons, but in the cooler evenings.
Adding the transatlantic time difference, this raises the prospect of crucial Scotland matches kicking-off well after pub closing time in the home nations.
However, the actual times of next summer’s fixtures will not be announced until after the competition’s groups are decided in the draw taking place on December 5th. Counter-pressure from European broadcasters keen to have access to the games at a civilised hour may yet see compromise on the matter.
Nonetheless, Scottish LibDem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton wasted no time in calling for a ‘special dispensation’ to allow Scotland’s pubs and bars to show World Cup matches regardless of the time of day or night.
Scottish Licensed Trade Association managing director Colin Wilkinson ‘wholeheartedly’ welcomed that call.
“This stunning victory by Steve Clarke’s side at Hampden has lifted the whole country and given everyone something positive to look forward to at a time when most of the news headlines are depressing,” declared Wilkinson.
“We urge local authorities and licensing boards across Scotland to put special measures in place to enable the nation to share in our national football team’s success in reaching their first World Cup for 28 years and hope that our pubs and bars will be allowed to open and show games late at night.
“The best place for fans to watch these games will be in our local pubs and bars where the atmosphere will be electric, you’ll be among friends and will no doubt make new ones,” said Wilkinson. “After all, not everyone will be able to travel to the USA, Canada or Mexico.
“Scotland’s victory has given us all something to smile about and for our pubs and bars struggling with the ongoing cost of living crisis and cost of doing business, to be able to open for a few extra hours during the World Cup will bring a massive boost to many businesses, particularly the small, independent operators.”
Founder of independent Scottish brewer Innis & Gunn, Dougal Sharp, also backed Cole-Hamilton’s calls for pubs to be given ‘special dispensation’ to screen Scotland’s 2026 World Cup matches late at night.
“Scotland qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 1998 is a defining moment for this generation, and Scots haven’t waited almost 30 years to watch it half-asleep on a tiny screen at home.
“These games deserve atmosphere, noise, and people coming together across the nation to back the boys in North America,” said Sharp.
“If kick-offs fall in the middle of the night, then extending opening hours would be a hugely positive step, not just for pubs and breweries, but for fans and communities across the country.
“Big moments in Scottish football are meant to be shared, and by extending licences we can give people the chance to gather safely, celebrate properly, and support local venues at the same time – it’s a win for everyone.
“And let’s be honest, the way things are going, we should probably be preparing for a long run deep into the tournament,” he added, optimistically.
“There’s no harm in being ready for a wee bit of history. So, to those in power, don’t miss this open goal, and give the pub trade – and the nation – another reason to celebrate.”
