The Tartan Army has secured a victory over England before a ball is kicked, as new data shows Scottish football fans are the most generous in the UK when it comes to tipping taxi drivers during the World Cup season.
Scots Lead in Tipping Generosity
According to a survey by Sterling Insurance, Scots are 11 per cent more likely to 'always' tip their taxi drivers compared to the English. The research, which polled 1,250 people, also found that 3 per cent more Scots are accustomed to tipping £6 or above, solidifying their reputation as generous supporters.
While the Scotland squad prepares for their first World Cup appearance in 28 years against Haiti in Boston, fans have already claimed bragging rights off the pitch.
Home Nations Comparison
In Scotland, 36 per cent of people say they 'always' tip, 2 per cent higher than Wales and Northern Ireland. England ranks bottom among the Home Nations with just 25 per cent. When it comes to tipping £6 or more, Scotland ties with Northern Ireland at 22 per cent, while Wales leads at 28 per cent and England trails at 19 per cent.
Peter Cook, a manager at Sterling Insurance, commented: "There’s nothing like football, and particularly the World Cup, to stoke up a bit of friendly rivalry between the Scottish and English. It certainly seems like you’d be better off picking up customers in Scotland than you would in England judging by the results."
Age and Tipping Habits
The survey also revealed that age plays a significant role in tipping behaviour. Nearly three in five people aged 65 or over said they 'always' tip, with almost one in five handing over £6-£10 on top of the fare. In contrast, Gen Z customers are the least likely to tip, topping the category of those who 'never' tip.
Mr Cook added: "If you’re picking up customers aged 65 or over in Scotland, it looks like you will be quids in."
World Cup Context
Scotland's opening match against Haiti will be broadcast live on BBC at 2am on Sunday, June 14 in the UK. The Tartan Army faces further group stage games against Morocco and Brazil as they aim for the knockout rounds. While England has historically progressed further in tournaments, the Scots have already claimed a victory in generosity.
The survey highlights the positive impact of the World Cup on the hospitality and taxi industries, with millions of pints expected to be consumed and taxi usage spiking across the UK.
