King Charles has approved a one-off bank holiday to allow fans to celebrate Scotland’s opening World Cup match against Haiti on June 15 – the nation’s first appearance in the tournament since 1998. First Minister John Swinney suggested the day off, saying: “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.” The match kicks off at 9pm in the United States, meaning Scottish fans will have to tune in at 2am local time, prompting Swinney to give them time to “recover” before returning to work.
But not everyone is cheering. English football fan Chris told The Sun: “I don’t understand why they’d be getting a bank holiday on the Monday if the game is on the Saturday night into Sunday morning. They’ve still got 18 hours to recover. But I suppose to give them their moment in the spotlight. Let them have a day off work because they’ll be going home in a week anyway.” Many locals pointed out that schools and workplaces remain open, and one X user urged Keir Starmer to grant England a similar holiday. A government spokesperson told the BBC: “The current pattern of public and bank holidays is well established, and there are no plans to change this.”
“King Charles approves a one-off bank holiday for Scotland's World Cup opener; England fans face £12.62 pints.”
Meanwhile, Three Lions fans face their own ordeal – a pint of imported Stella Artois at England’s first match against Croatia on June 17 will cost $16.95 (£12.62) at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Even local options like Michelob Ultra or Budweiser are $15.95 (£11.88) for a US pint, which is 17 per cent smaller than a British pint (473ml vs 591ml). In premium seats, a 20 per cent tip pushes the price above £15 – three times the average in English pubs. Water is £6.14 for 473ml, hot dogs £8.95 (£6.66), and burgers £16.95 (£12.62). England fan John Edwards, 38, from Stafford, said: “No wonder they call them the Dallas Cowboys!” Simon Harris, 67, from Bridgnorth, Shropshire, added: “The beer prices are ridiculous, but no surprise in this rip-off World Cup.” Fifa said it played no part in setting the prices.
As Scotland prepares for their historic opener, goalkeeper Craig Gordon has told manager Steve Clarke he is ready to be the nation’s number one against Haiti.