Specsavers, the Official Eye and Ear Care Partner of the Scottish FA, has released a new film shining a light on the extraordinary journeys fans make to follow the national team around the world, as Scotland prepares to kick off their FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign against Denmark.
The video tells the story of Shetland fisherman Lyall Gair, who has attended almost 90 Scotland games – including five major tournaments – across 38 European countries and beyond.
From 14-hour ferry rides through Orkney to overnight train journeys and flights spanning the globe, Lyall’s story captures the spirit and stamina of Scotland’s support.
Lyall, from Quarff, was also part of the record-breaking Scotland support at Euro 2024 in Germany, which has been described as the greatest Tartan Army mobilisation ever. Estimates suggest between 100,000 and 200,000 Scots travelled to Munich for the opening match alone and is the largest fan mobilisation since Scotland’s famous 1970s “Wembley weekend.”
Speaking in the film, Lyall says: ‘Yeah, the journeys are long, but you might as well spend them with friends and family. I laugh when people ask, ‘why do you do it?’ Atmosphere, friendships, stories – you get it all when you’re following Scotland.’
He adds: ‘It could be 90 minutes of glory, or really, the football is the worst part of your holiday. But you come back, and you plan for the next one.’
And for fans like Lyall, the journey begins again tonight, with Scotland setting out on the road to qualification, he and thousands of others will be hoping their next great adventure takes them across the Atlantic – to cheer on Scotland at the FIFA World Cup Finals in the USA next year.
Jenny Stephenson, Specsavers’ Scottish Divisional Chair, says: ‘Scotland’s fans are renowned across the world for their passion, humour and loyalty. As the team begins its World Cup qualification journey, this film celebrates the supporters who’ve seen and heard it all and go to incredible lengths to back the team, wherever they play.’
Specsavers announced in 2024 that it was extending its sponsorship deal, becoming the Official Eye and Ear Care Partner of the Scottish FA, marking 24 years of support and beyond for the partnership – one of the longest agreements of its kind in sport.
The deal sees the partnership not only helping with the training and development of referees but also supporting the growth of Scottish football in both the men’s and women’s game.
As the Official Eye and Ear Care Partner of the Scottish FA, Specsavers is here to change lives through better sight and hearing, by making expert care accessible and affordable for all.
Visit www.specsavers.co.uk or go in store to book an appointment with one of our hearing experts.
For more information or to speak to a Specsavers expert please contact:
