Scotland’s Tartan Army has transformed Boston into a sea of tartan and kilts, bringing World Cup fever to Massachusetts as the team prepares for their pivotal clash against Brazil. The fans, known for their passionate support and charitable spirit, have been celebrating Scotland’s first World Cup appearance this century with bagpipes, chants, and even placing traffic cones on statues. The team’s recent form shows a 1W-0D-1L record, with their last result being a commanding 4-0 victory over Liechtenstein on June 9, 2025.
Who are the Tartan Army?
The Tartan Army is Scotland’s famed supporters group, renowned for their loud, passionate, and charitable presence at matches. They have made Boston their home base for the first two World Cup matches, traveling to and from Gillette Stadium on a fleet of yellow school buses. Their distinctive kilts and tartan patterns, a cultural symbol of Scotland, make them easily recognizable.
Why the name Tartan Army?
The name comes from the tartan pattern, a series of overlapping horizontal and vertical lines that adorn their kilts. Tartan has deep roots in Scottish Highland culture, dating back to the third or fourth century AD. The British once outlawed tartan in 1747 as part of efforts to suppress Highland rebellion, but the law was repealed in 1782.
What songs do Scottish fans sing?
The Tartan Army is known for belting out popular songs like 'Yes Sir I Can Boogie at Hampden Park' and 'No Scotland No Party' at matches. Their high spirits and love for their team have made them a beloved presence in Boston, where they’ve been welcomed with open arms despite the city’s strong Irish heritage.
Scotland’s next match against Brazil on June 24 will be a true test of their mettle, following their recent 4-0 win over Liechtenstein. The Tartan Army’s support will undoubtedly be a driving force for the team as they aim to make their mark in the World Cup.
