Football’s world governing body has confirmed that Scottish fans will be allowed to take sporrans into matches at this summer’s World Cup in North America.
The decision reverses an earlier ruling that would have banned the traditional pouch, which is worn around the waist as part of Highland dress. The accessory, roughly the size of a small plate, had been caught up in strict new bag size regulations introduced for security reasons.
The Scottish Football Association had raised concerns with FIFA after it became clear the rules would effectively stop fans wearing kilts in the traditional way. Thousands of Scotland supporters are expected to travel to matches in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
A spokesman for the Tartan Army welcomed the move. “Common sense has prevailed,” he said. “For many fans, the kilt is a proud part of our identity when we follow the team abroad. The sporran isn’t just for show, it serves a practical purpose.”
That practical purpose is twofold. First, the weight of the sporran helps hold down the front of the kilt in windy conditions. With matches taking place in parts of the United States and Mexico where temperatures will be high, gusty winds could still cause problems for those wearing traditional dress.
Second, the pouch provides essential storage. Fans use them to carry tickets, money, mobile phones and room keys. Some also use them to carry a hip flask though FIFA has made clear that all other stadium rules on alcohol will still apply.
Scotland have not appeared at a World Cup since 1998. They have never progressed beyond the first round of the competition, even when it featured fewer teams than the expanded 48-nation format being used this summer.
For many supporters, the chance to follow the team on such a large scale is a rare opportunity. The Tartan Army has built a reputation over decades for colourful and friendly support at major tournaments, often making headlines for their behaviour off the pitch as much as the team’s performance on it.
FIFA said in a statement that it had reviewed the position after representations from the Scottish FA.
The governing body stressed that all other security measures would remain in place and that bags and pouches would still be subject to search at stadium entrances.
The decision means thousands of Scottish fans can now prepare for the tournament with their full traditional outfit intact. For one supporter contacted yesterday, the news prompted an immediate response.