Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney, has put forward a major proposal to mark a historic sporting moment: a national bank holiday to celebrate the men's football team's long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup.
A National Holiday for a Historic Match
During a New Year election pitch in Glasgow on Monday 5 January 2026, Mr Swinney announced his plan. He has written to the Privy Council proposing that Monday 15 June 2026 be designated a bank holiday in Scotland.
This date follows the national team's opening World Cup fixture against Haiti in Boston, which kicks off at 2am UK time on Sunday 14 June. The holiday would allow supporters across the country to watch the match and celebrate what will be Scotland's first appearance in the tournament since 1998.
"The whole nation will come to a standstill in June," Mr Swinney stated. "Even more so in July once we've seen off Brazil and progressed to the knockout stages. This is a moment 28 years in the waiting - and I want as many people as possible to share the occasion."
Election Pitch and Vision for Independence
The announcement was woven into a broader political speech ahead of the Holyrood election in May. Mr Swinney framed 2026 as a pivotal year, citing both the World Cup and the return of the Commonwealth Games to Glasgow.
He criticised the current UK economic landscape, describing it as "broken" and highlighting flat living standards, high poverty levels, and "scandalously high" energy costs in Scotland. He accused the UK of "lurching further and further to the right" and labelled rhetoric on immigration as "nothing short of disgraceful."
Mr Swinney argued that the best solution to these issues is Scottish independence. "To become independent, we need a referendum that will be recognised by the international community," he said, drawing a parallel to the 2011 referendum secured after an SNP majority. He admitted delivering independence was an "ambitious task" but called for a "fresh start."
Political Reactions and Rival Speeches
The same morning, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar also addressed supporters. He acknowledged the unpopularity of the UK Labour government but positioned himself in defiance of the current political climate.
"The SNP have had their chance," Mr Sarwar claimed, "they blew it." He criticised both the SNP and Reform UK for playing "the politics of fear and blame," asserting that Nigel Farage "does not care about Scotland."
Meanwhile, Scottish Tory leader Russell Findlay was scheduled to give an afternoon speech expected to focus on the cost-of-living crisis.
Next Steps for the Bank Holiday Proposal
The proposed World Cup bank holiday is not yet confirmed. The plan requires formal approval from the Privy Council and must be rubber-stamped by the King before it is enacted.
Mr Swinney emphasised the wider benefits of the celebration, stating it would put Scotland on the world stage, attract business development, boost tourism and hospitality, and forge lasting cultural and sporting connections.
As the May election approaches, the bank holiday pledge intertwines national pride with the SNP's core political message, setting the stage for a year where sport and constitutional debate will dominate the Scottish agenda.
