Bank holiday confirmed in Scotland for Monday after World Cup opener

A one-off bank holiday will be held in Scotland to mark the national men’s football team’s return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 28 years.

Monday, June 15 has been named as a bank holiday in Scotland following a royal proclamation formally approved by the King.

In the proclamation, issued from Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, the King said the holiday was being appointed “to mark the achievement of Scotland’s men’s football team competing at the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 28 years”.

The proclamation states: “Whereas, to mark the achievement of Scotland’s men’s football team competing at the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 28 years, We consider it desirable that Monday, the fifteenth day of June in the year 2026 should be a bank holiday in Scotland.

“Now, therefore, We, in pursuance of section 1(3) of the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971, do hereby appoint Monday, the fifteenth day of June in the year 2026 to be a bank holiday in Scotland.”

The move follows advice from First Minister John Swinney, who said the bank holiday would allow the country to come together to celebrate Scotland’s appearance on the world stage.

“This year, we want to make the most of this huge opportunity for Scotland and ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to celebrate the team’s success,” Swinney said.

“Not only is this an historic sporting event, it’s also a chance for Scotland to be on the world stage, to attract business development, create tourism interest within the country and to make cultural and sporting connections.

“That is why I am taking steps to ensure the Monday after our opening game should be a national bank holiday, so that – no matter the outcome of the match – we can all come together to share the occasion.”

The First Minister has also previously said the Scottish Government will work with local authorities on extended pub opening hours on days when Scotland are playing during the tournament.

However, the bank holiday will not guarantee a paid day off for everyone.

Bank and public holidays do not have to be given as paid leave, and there is no requirement for businesses to close. Employers may choose to include bank holidays as part of a worker’s statutory annual leave entitlement.

Only government employees are guaranteed to receive the additional day off, depending on individual contracts.

Powers over bank holidays are devolved to the Scottish Parliament. While the Scottish Government can propose new holidays, they must be formally appointed by royal proclamation, with the First Minister advising the Privy Council before final approval by the monarch.