World Cup 2026: Scotland's love story for Boston
June 26, 2026 · TaegeukGoal
The Tartan Army is creating unforgettable experiences through cultural exchange in Boston during the World Cup.
Scotland's Tartan Army are creating unforgettable moments in Boston this week. On Monday, a video of Massachusetts Governor Maura Healy making a proclamation legalizing haggis, a traditional Scottish dish, went viral on social media. In addition to drinking beer, having fun at baseball games and donating to charity, Scottish fans are rumored to have come here to liberate haggis from America after 55 years. However, less than 24 hours later, the governor poured cold water on fans' expectations by posting an explanation video saying, "This was a joke."
Nevertheless, Scotland fans captured the hearts of Bostonians. Now many of the city's statues wear traffic sign hats, and Boston's sidewalks are lined with fans dressed in traditional Scottish clothing. Last Sunday, thousands of Scottish fans cheered and enjoyed the Boston Red Sox game at Phenomway Park, and they sang songs, adding to the joyful atmosphere in the stadium.
This cultural exchange did not just stop at baseball. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu appeared in a Scotland soccer jersey as she announced the city's application for a sister city with Glasgow. It's not uncommon for tens of thousands of football fans to flock to a city for major competitions, but this Scottish fan festival was special in a special way. Their conduct is further highlighted by the fact that there has not been a single arrest of a Scotland fan in Boston or nearby Providence.
This festival in Boston began two years ago as preparation for the European Championships in Bavaria, Germany. At that time, Scottish fans were praised for their behavior and generosity, and their joy at returning after 28 years for this World Cup was extraordinary. If the Scottish team had achieved a good result against Haiti in their first game, the festive mood in Boston would have been even hotter. However, fans consider this trip to be an unforgettable experience of their lives, and if given this opportunity again, they would want to come back even after 30 years.
Through their Boston experience, Scotland fans are creating unforgettable memories in a warm and welcoming city. If they rise to third place through the next game, they can look forward to coming here again to share their traditions and culture. Scotland's legacy in Boston can be said to be their generosity, good cheer, and letting many locals know that the World Cup was taking place.
All this except the haggis dinner.