Scotland manager Steve Clarke has issued a heartfelt warning to fans planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, urging them not to go into debt to follow the national team.

Clarke made the remarks as supporter club members were given the first opportunity to apply for tickets for Scotland’s group-stage matches in Boston and Miami, facing Haiti, Morocco, and Brazil.

The announcement comes amid widespread criticism of FIFA’s World Cup ticket pricing, which has left some fans facing bills of several thousand pounds for a single match.

“It’s going to be expensive,” Clarke told BBC Scotland.
“But if you can get there and afford to be there, then fantastic—but don’t push yourself too far into debt trying to get there.”

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Ticket Allocation and Prices

The Scottish FA has been allocated a limited percentage of seats for the group matches, with hopes of securing additional tickets over the coming months.

Ticket pricing for Scotland’s matches will be as follows:

• Scotland vs Haiti (Boston): £134, £298, £372
• Scotland vs Morocco (Boston): £163, £320, £447
• Scotland vs Brazil (Miami): £198, £373, £523 (3,736 tickets allocated)

Clarke acknowledged the challenge fans face in affording travel and tickets while highlighting the importance of fans being able to attend without financial strain.

“Those who travel to all the far-flung places deserve to be there. A friend of mine has already booked his flights and is asking me for tickets, but he’ll need to hold fire because I don’t have any at the minute,” Clarke explained.

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Preparing the Squad for the World Cup

Clarke also provided insights into Scotland’s preparations ahead of the tournament, including plans for friendly matches against non-European teams and two training camps, one of which will be in a hot climate to simulate World Cup conditions.

He emphasized that the squad will comprise 26 players, offering flexibility for rotation and tactical adjustments. Clarke reaffirmed his commitment to loyalty for the players who secured qualification, but stressed that performance will determine selection:

“I’m not afraid to bring younger players into the squad, or to change one or two players if that’s what has to be done. Players on the periphery need to play well every single game, grab my attention, and force their way into the squad.”

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Clarke Reflects on World Cup Qualification

Speaking during his first visit back to Scotland since the 4-2 victory over Denmark, Clarke praised the excitement and support shown by fans:

“The number of well-wishers genuinely excited that the country has qualified for a World Cup is great. It shows you the power of football and what it can do for people.”

Scotland’s qualification marks the first time a Scotland men’s team has reached the World Cup since Craig Brown, and Clarke hopes fans can enjoy the tournament without facing financial hardship.