Tartan Army descends on Miami for World Cup baseball gathering
Injured midfielder Billy Gilmour throws first pitch as 20,008 fans mark second major US gathering of the tournament.
Thousands of Scotland supporters, known as the Tartan Army, converged on LoanDepot Park in Miami on 22 June 2026 for a Major League Baseball match between the Miami Marlins and the Texas Rangers. The event, which drew a crowd of 20,008, marked the largest Monday night gathering at the venue since 2017 and served as a significant fan hub during the 2026 World Cup.
Injured Scotland midfielder Billy Gilmour, who plays for Napoli, threw the ceremonial first pitch to the crowd. Wearing a Marlins jersey and a brace around his knee, the midfielder hobbled to the mound before delivering the pitch to enthusiastic applause. The gathering marked the second major fan event for Scotland supporters in the United States during the tournament, following a previous assembly at Fenway Park in Boston.
The atmosphere at the stadium was heavily themed around Scottish culture, with vendors offering a tartan menu and the St Andrews Pipe Band of Miami performing for the attendees. DJ CP played Scottish anthems and other music throughout the match, while fans engaged in various activities, including one supporter holding a sign reading "Looking for a Scot" near a food stall.
Stephen McGinn, brother of Scotland player John McGinn, was present at the game and caught an errant baseball that rebounded off a metal railing. Another attendee, who displayed a Dundee United tattoo, described a "mince and tattie hot dog" as a nine out of 10, though he noted it did not match the quality of the football at Tannadice.
The event occurred amidst broader World Cup action, including Norway’s recent 3-2 victory over Senegal in New Jersey, which secured the Norwegian team’s place in the knockout stage. Scotland’s final Group C match against Brazil is scheduled for Wednesday, a fixture that may determine their progression in the tournament.
