Monday 15 June 2026 has been confirmed as a national bank holiday following the approval of a Royal Proclamation by King Charles to mark Scotland’s participation in the men’s football World Cup finals.
The additional holiday was proposed by First Minister John Swinney to allow people, businesses and organisations across the country to celebrate after Scotland’s opening group match against Haiti.
The proclamation confirms the first men’s World Cup appearance for Scotland since 1998 will be recognised nationally, reflecting the significance of qualification after nearly three decades away from the tournament.
The bank holiday will fall on the Monday following the opening match, which is scheduled to take place in Boston, giving communities time and space to come together regardless of the result.
Speaking following confirmation of the proclamation, the First Minister said:
“Scotland will be on the world stage this summer and I want as many people as possible to be able to celebrate that moment.
“Football means a great deal to many people in this country and it has been almost three decades since our men’s national team played at the World Cup finals tournament.
“The joyous reaction when Steve Clarke and his players secured qualification demonstrated what it meant to end that long absence.
“We want to make the most of Scotland’s participation in this global sporting event by ensuring people have the opportunity to come together and celebrate, no matter the outcome of the match.
“That is why I proposed making the Monday following our opening game in Boston a national bank holiday.
“I am very grateful to His Majesty King Charles for approving the proposal and I encourage employers around the country to work with staff to put in place suitable arrangements that will allow as many of them as possible to join in the celebrations.”
As with other bank holidays in Scotland, there is no legal requirement for banks or businesses to close, with arrangements determined by individual employer policies and existing contracts of employment.
The Scottish Government has said the intention of the bank holiday is to recognise the cultural importance of the moment and to maximise the opportunity for shared celebration across the country.
