World Cup 2026: Calls for 'huge' fan parks and late night pub licences for Scotland’s World Cup games

The Scottish Liberal Democrats said big screens could be placed in stadiums and parks to give Scots the “best experience” of watching the tournament taking place in the USA, Mexico and Canada.

The party suggested pubs could get special dispensation to show matches if they are scheduled to happen overnight.

Kick off times for next year’s tournament are likely to be at 5pm, 8pm, 11pm and 2am.

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton said: “While a lucky few head over the Atlantic, the appetite for watching Scotland’s games back here is going to be off the scale. I want to see government and councils work together to give fans the best experience.

“Huge fan parks could be set up across the country so we can gather to watch our games on the biggest screens in stadiums or parks. Pubs could be given special dispensation to show their matches in the event that they are scheduled for late at night.

“What an achievement for Steve Clarke’s men and this generation of players. Let’s push the boat out at home so we can make the most of every twist and turn, and fingers crossed a few more wondergoals.”

Scottish Liberal Democrat sport spokesperson Neil Alexander added: “I could see people packing into community sports clubs. After a tough few years for pubs and clubs, what an opportunity this is for the government to work with them to make the most of this amazing achievement.”

Colin Wilkinson, managing director of the Scottish Licensed Trade Association, has backed the party’s calls.

He said: “This stunning victory by Steve Clarke’s side at Hampden has lifted the whole country and given everyone something positive to look forward to at a time when most of the news headlines are depressing.

“We urge local authorities and licensing boards across Scotland to put special measures in place to enable the nation to share in our national football team’s success in reaching their first World Cup for 28 years and hope that our pubs and bars will be allowed to open and show games late at night.

“The best place for fans to watch these games will be in our local pubs and bars where the atmosphere will be electric, you’ll be among friends and will no doubt make new ones. After all, not everyone will be able to travel to the USA, Canada or Mexico.”

Mr Wilkinson added: “Amid the current doom and gloom weighing down the whole of the UK, Scotland’s victory has given us all something to smile about and for our pubs and bars struggling with the ongoing cost of living crisis and cost of doing business, to be able to open for a few extra hours during the World Cup will bring a massive boost to many businesses, particularly the small, independent operators.”

The FIFA World Cup is scheduled to begin on Thursday 11 June 2026 at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca. The competition will end with the final on July 19 2026, and takes place at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, United States.

You can read our explainer on how to get tickets here.

The Scottish Government has been approached for comment.