Football enthusiasts were swept up in jubilation, celebrating a significant triumph that kept spirits high well into the night. However, the Tartan Army now confronts the practical challenge of supporting their team at a World Cup situated over 3,000 miles away.

Scotland’s impressive 4-2 win against Denmark on Tuesday night secured their place in the prestigious tournament. Yet, experts caution that fans must navigate the distinct visa requirements imposed by each host nation.

The 2026 World Cup is set to commence in June at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, spanning across 16 cities throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada. With the group stage draw still pending, Scottish fans find themselves in a dilemma—whether to book flights early to capitalize on lower fares or to wait, hoping to pinpoint the cities where their team will compete.

Despite the group stages being organized into Eastern, Western, and Central regions, supporters might still have to embark on arduous journeys across the North American continent to follow their team.

With the draw yet to be made for the group stages, Scots are caught between booking any flights early to save money and guessing which cities will host Scotland’s matches.

Even with the group stages divided into Eastern, Western and Central regions, fans would still face potentially gruelling journeys across North America.

Scotland’s players celebrate in the wake of their dramatic 4-2 win over Denmark

Those travelling to the US for the World Cup must apply for a visa

Fans could be left scrabbling for airline tickets as they plan their trips to the World Cup

If Scotland were to be based in the Eastern region, American Airlines flights are currently available from Edinburgh to Philadelphia on the day before the tournament begins, returning the day after the group games end, for just over £700.

However, group matches in the region are also scheduled for cities including Toronto, 477 miles away by road, and Miami, a 1,200-mile trip south.

Trains do connect the cities, but the travel time between Philadelphia and Miami is more than 24 hours.

Flights are available but may sell out quickly.

Advice Direct Scotland, which runs the consumeradvice.scot service, has warned fans not to get caught out by passport and visa rules, scams or venue changes. 

The charity has issued a checklist for travelling supporters ahead of next summer’s tournament.

Andrew Bartlett, chief executive at Advice Direct Scotland, said: ‘Supporters have already been urged to book flights early if they want the best prices, because as soon as the fixtures are announced, fares will be pushed up.

‘But anyone planning to travel should remember that although booking early will save money, it is a gamble when we don’t yet know where Scotland will be playing.

‘Travel insurance is a must, and supporters should also consider flexible booking options. It’s also important for fans to ensure their passports are valid for at least six months beyond their return date, and to check entry and visa requirements for the host countries.’

Tickets for World Cup matches could end up being resold online at inflated prices

US President Donald Trump with the World Cup

Visa processing times can be lengthy, so fans are being urged to apply early.

Before entering the US, UK nationals must apply using its Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), or alternatively obtain a visa. 

To enter or transit through Canada, most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), which they can apply for online. 

British citizens visiting Mexico as a tourist do not need a visa, but will receive a stamp in their passports stating how long they are allowed to stay.

Simon Calder, travel correspondent for the Independent, told the BBC: ‘Sixteen days from now all of this will be revealed at least at the group stages, at which point prices for flights and accommodation will go stratospheric.

‘So you could – and this is my strategy – take a guess on a transatlantic flight now.’

Scotland’s group stage locations will be confirmed after the draw on December 5.