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Scotland supporters heading to the 2026 World Cup will face an unexpected hurdle when trying to recreate one of their most iconic traditions.
The famous Tartan Army marches – a staple of international tournaments – won’t be as straightforward this summer, with new rules now in place across host cities in the United States.
Scotland fans will need approved permit for famous pre-game marches
The Scottish FA has confirmed that any organised fan marches will require an official permit from local authorities, particularly in host cities like Boston, where the nation will play two of its group games.
Supporters have been told that marches must meet strict criteria, including limits on duration, behaviour and group size.
As such, events must last under 90 minutes, involve more than 150 people, and avoid anything deemed unsafe, including pyrotechnics, flares or political messaging.
There’s also a logistical challenge, as Scotland’s opening two matches will take place at Gillette Stadium, which is located over 20 miles from central Boston, meaning traditional matchday marches to the ground won’t be possible.
Instead, designated routes within the city, such as Boston Common and City Hall Plaza, have been identified for any approved fan gatherings.
FGG says: Tartan Army will have to follow the rules but it won't stop tradition
Large-scale marches involving thousands of fans need to be managed safely, especially in cities not used to that kind of football culture.
But there’s no getting away from the fact that it alters one of the defining parts of following Scotland at major tournaments.
The Tartan Army’s pre-match ritual isn't just about getting to the stadium, as it has become part of the atmosphere, the identity, and the whole experience of being there.
Requiring permits and restricting locations inevitably takes some of that spontaneity away. That said, if fans can organise properly and still come together in big numbers, there’s no reason the spirit of those famous marches can’t live on.