Scottish stars are joining the Tartan Army in North America for the 2026 World Cup. From former football captain Scott Brown to singer Sandi Thom, well-known faces have made the journey to support Scotland in the tournament for the first time since 1998.
Thousands of Fans Begin Journey
Thousands of Scotland supporters have already started their trip to America as excitement builds for the country's long-awaited return to the World Cup. Steve Clarke's side is preparing to compete after a 28-year absence, and fans are traveling in huge numbers to back the national team.
The famous Tartan Army will not be alone in the States. A number of well-known Scottish personalities from football and music are also crossing the Atlantic to support Scotland during what promises to be a historic summer.
For many fans, this is a moment they have waited decades to witness. Scots in America have already begun making their presence felt, bringing their trademark energy, chants, and sense of community to Boston for the first two games.
Famous Faces Heading Stateside
Some famous faces have made it known on social media that they will be present during Scotland's group stage run. Here are a few Scottish stars heading stateside to soak up the atmosphere with the Tartan Army.
Musicians Nathan Evans and Saint PHNX
Among the most enthusiastic supporters are musicians Nathan Evans and Saint PHNX members Alan and Stevie Jukes. The group recently released a special World Cup version of their song Home, which has quickly become a soundtrack for Scotland's supporters. They launched the song with a massive pop-up performance at Glasgow's Princes Square on May 27 and were vocal about their trip to watch the team play. The trio were spotted at Glasgow Airport on June 11 singing their hit track with supporters as travelers prepared for flights.
Former Footballer Paul Slane
Former footballer and Open Goal podcast presenter Paul Slane has also crossed the Atlantic. The ex-Motherwell, Celtic, and Ayr United player will create content for the popular football podcast throughout the tournament. After arriving in Boston, Slane posed for a photo on steps with an American flag in the background, posted on the Open Goal Instagram alongside Bruce Springsteen's Born in the U.S.A. He will hold the fort for the podcast in America while co-hosts work from fan zones across Glasgow.
Scott Brown
Former Scotland captain Scott Brown is another familiar face heading stateside. The ex-Celtic midfielder and former Ayr United manager never had the opportunity to represent Scotland at a World Cup during his playing career. However, this summer he will be involved in tournament coverage with the BBC, providing analysis alongside former internationals James McFadden and Rachel Corsie.
Sandi Thom
Singer-songwriter Sandi Thom is also joining Scotland supporters in North America. She has reworked her hit song I Wish I Was A Punk Rocker to mark Scotland's return to the World Cup and performed the updated version at a supporters event in New York on June 11. She wore a red kilt and performed in front of a giant Scotland flag as supporters counted down to kick-off.
Judith Ralston
BBC weather presenter Judith Ralston shared on Instagram that she is represented at the World Cup by a flag made by the Tartan Army. She posted a clip of fans in America posing with Scotland flags, one reading "Judith Ralston appreciation society Tartan Army" with her picture. She captioned the video: "I am extraordinarily proud to be represented by the Tartan army at the World Cup. This is right up there with being featured in The Broons and Oor Willie."
