Chaotic scenes unfolded in Miami on Wednesday afternoon as Scottish football supporters interrupted a live television broadcast. WPLG Miami reporter Kacy Hintz was reporting from outside loanDepot Park, home of the Miami Marlins, when fans attempted to take over her microphone.
"We love Miami," one fan told Hintz, adding, "Come to f***ing Scotland!" The reporter, while managing the surrounding crowd, explained that many fans did not have tickets for the upcoming World Cup match but were present to support the team. She noted that an estimated 25,000 members of the "Tartan Army," Scotland's passionate fanbase, were expected in Miami for the team's Group C game against Brazil.
Fans were seen wearing kilts, drinking beer, and singing "No Scotland, no party!" Hintz stated that the supporters expressed gratitude for the hospitality they had received in the United States, having previously been based in Massachusetts for earlier matches. "The people of America have been wonderful, so welcoming to us," one fan commented. The fans also emphasized that their presence was for enjoyment, with one stating, "No arrests, zero arrests, just fun."
Hintz apologized to viewers for the profanity heard during the segment, attributing it to fans who had been drinking.
The Tartan Army had previously been noted for their good-natured antics in Boston, where they celebrated Scotland's first World Cup appearance in 28 years. Their activities in Massachusetts, which went viral, included popularizing local beers and engaging in street singalongs. Videos showed Boston police officers participating in fan activities.
However, the reception in South Florida has been noted as slightly less enthusiastic. A video circulated online showed a fan attempting to place a traffic cone on a statue in downtown Miami, an act that was prevented by police. This practice is a recognized Scottish tradition, often seen in cities like Glasgow.
The Tartan Army also attended a baseball game between the Miami Marlins and the visiting Texas Rangers, reacting with enthusiasm to various moments of the match. The group was also heard serenading the city with a rendition of The Proclaimers' song "I'm Gonna Be."
Approximately 50,000 Scotland supporters are estimated to have traveled to the U.S. for the tournament.