Scotland is gearing up to welcome EURO 2028, and new legislation has been introduced in the Scottish Parliament to ensure the tournament runs smoothly.
The UEFA European Championship (Scotland) Bill aims to crack down on ticket touting and manage street trading and advertising in key areas.
If passed, the bill will prohibit the resale of tickets for profit both online and in person across Scotland.
It will also introduce restrictions on street trading and outdoor advertising within designated event zones in Glasgow.
Courts will have the power to impose fines of up to £20,000, with no limit on the penalties for the most serious offences.
EURO 2028 will bring 24 national teams together, with matches set to take place across the UK and Ireland, including at Glasgow’s Hampden Park in June and July.
Business Minister Richard Lochhead highlighted the importance of the tournament as a chance for Scotland to shine on the global stage.
He stressed that hosting the Euros will bring thousands of fans to Scotland, boosting cities, pubs, restaurants, hotels, and local communities.
Scotland has a strong reputation for hosting major sporting and cultural events, and Lochhead sees this as an opportunity to build on that legacy.
The new legislation is designed to protect the integrity of the tournament while ensuring Scotland benefits economically.
With ticket touting a major concern for UEFA, the Scottish Government is taking steps to prevent fans from being exploited.
The move to introduce tough penalties for illegal ticket sales and unregulated trading is a clear sign that Scotland is taking its responsibilities as a host nation seriously.
EURO 2028 is set to be one of the biggest sporting events in Scotland’s history, and the preparations are well underway.
From fans filling the stands at Hampden Park to businesses reaping the rewards of increased footfall, the tournament promises to be a game-changer for the nation.
Scotland’s love of football is well known, and with this new legislation, the country is showing it is ready to welcome the world in 2028.
