What's happened
FIFA announced the 2025 World Cup schedule, with matches in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Scotland's group stage matches are in Boston and Miami, with late kick-offs affecting UK viewers. The tournament features 48 teams over 104 matches, with ticketing and licensing adjustments underway.
What's behind the headline?
The announced schedule underscores the logistical complexity of a multi-country World Cup, especially with the expanded format. The late kick-off times in the UK will likely diminish local viewership and pub participation, risking economic benefits for Scottish venues. Conversely, the US venues, such as Dallas and Boston, will benefit from climate-controlled stadiums and prime time matches, attracting large crowds and international attention. The scheduling decisions reveal a prioritization of US markets, with potential long-term impacts on global viewership patterns. The Scottish team's participation introduces a new competitive dynamic, and their matches in Boston and Miami will test their ability to adapt to different climates and time zones. The ongoing discussions about licensing flexibility highlight the tension between maximizing economic gains and managing public health and safety during the tournament.
What the papers say
Sky News provides detailed insights into the scheduling and logistical arrangements, emphasizing the impact on UK viewers and pub licensing. The Scotsman offers a comprehensive overview of Scotland's group stage fixtures and potential progression routes, highlighting the challenges of late-night matches. The Independent discusses the broader implications of the schedule, including the economic boost for hospitality sectors and the logistical considerations for venues and fans. While Sky News focuses on the US-based logistics, The Scotsman emphasizes Scotland's specific fixtures, and The Independent contextualizes the event within the wider economic and social landscape, illustrating differing perspectives on the tournament's impact.
How we got here
The 2025 World Cup is the first to feature 48 teams, expanding from 32, and is hosted across three countries—US, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament's schedule was finalized after complex venue and timing decisions, with matches spread across different time zones. Scotland qualified for the first time, drawing a challenging group with Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti, with matches in Boston and Miami. Concerns arose over late UK kick-offs impacting viewing and pub licensing, prompting discussions on flexible licensing hours. The event is expected to boost local hospitality sectors and generate significant economic activity.
Go deeper
Common question
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2025 World Cup: When, Where, and Who's Playing?
The 2025 World Cup is set to be one of the most exciting tournaments yet, with matches across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Fans are eager to know the schedule, the teams involved, and how to catch the action. Whether you're a supporter of Scotland's debut or just a football fanatic, understanding the key details can help you stay ahead. Below, we answer the most common questions about this global event, from match timings to ticketing updates.
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The Scotland national football team represents Scotland in men's international football and is controlled by the Scottish Football Association.
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FIFA is a non-profit organization which describes itself as an international governing body of association football, fútsal, beach soccer, and efootball. It is the highest governing body of football.
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The Morocco national football team, nicknamed "the Atlas Lions", represents Morocco in men's international football competitions. It is controlled by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, also known as FRMF. The team's colours are red and green. The tea
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