The European country plans to organize a holiday in honor of the national team’s participation in the World Cup

Scotland plans to declare June 15 a national holiday in honor of the men’s team qualifying for the World Cup for the first time in 28 years.

The Scottish Government announced on Monday (January 5) that First Minister John Swinney will put forward a proposal that would “give individuals, businesses and other organizations in Scotland the chance to celebrate” following the national team’s first group stage match against Haiti in Boston at 2am local time on June 14.

The determination of public holidays was devolved to Scotland by the Scotland Act 1998. This legislation allows the country’s First Minister to make proposals to the Council of Great Britain for the proclamation of holidays in Scotland, which King Henry III then requests. Charles makes the final appointment.

Scotland defeated Denmark 4-2 in November and qualified for the 2026 World Cup to be held in the USA, Mexico and Canada.

“Scotland’s qualification for the Men’s World Cup was an outstanding achievement and a momentous occasion, and the reaction to the dramatic victory over Denmark reminded us all of what football means to the country.

We want to make the most of this great opportunity for Scotland this year and ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to celebrate the team’s success.

“This is not just a historic sporting event, it is also a chance for Scotland to compete on the world stage, attract business development, generate tourism interest in the country and build cultural and sporting links,” Swinney said.

Scotland are in Group C with Haiti, Brazil and Morocco; They played the last two in the group stage in 1998, reaching the final of the tournament for the last time.