Former Scotland international Snodgrass sympathises with fans facing 'crazy' World Cup ticket costs
Scotland have been placed in Group C in North America, starting their 2026 World Cup campaign on 14 June against Haiti, followed by matches with Morocco and Brazil to conclude the group stage, where they will aim to advance.
Manager Steve Clarke is the first coach to take Scotland to a World Cup since Craig Brown did so in 1998.
Snodgrass, who ended his international career with 28 caps and seven goals, spoke exclusively to Tribal Football about Scotland’s prospects before the tournament as they look to spring a surprise.
This discussion with Robert Snodgrass took place on behalf of Booker as part of the UK wholesaler’s initiative to encourage Scotland fans to support local shops during the Summer of Sport.
Which players can make a genuine impact for Scotland?
Tribal: Regarding Andy Robertson, how crucial will his leadership be as captain of this Scotland squad this summer?
Snodgrass: “Yes, he is enormous. He has a huge number of caps and is likely to surpass Kenny Dalglish’s record. He has featured in many high stakes matches. He has a wonderful demeanour as a captain; he developed into that role from a young age when I was with him. He possesses that leadership quality, he will be a significant factor, and I believe the fact that they have all been together, and looking at the core of that squad, McGinn, McTominay, and him, who have been involved since Steve Clarke first took over, he has an excellent rapport with the manager, so he will be crucial.
Is there a particular aspect of the team that inspires confidence? Is it the dedication, the resilience, the togetherness and the familiarity with each other, or something else?
“No, I just think the fact they have been together for an extended period means they are cultivating that, hopefully, to never really count yourself out of a match and to maintain that determined mindset. I believe that will be the deciding factor, learning from past mistakes in certain moments. People often say tournament football is somewhat different from club football, especially in terms of positioning. Scotland had that long absence from tournament football, and now they approach it having learned from the European Championship. I think that will be essential for them achieving some major results.
Ticket costs are "crazy" for fans this year
Sky high ticket prices, expensive flights and exorbitant hotel rates are preventing fans from attending this year’s tournament, a widely reported issue for supporters eager to watch their nation at the World Cup.
Snodgrass discussed the impact on Scottish fans, who would be the first to fill every stadium if not for the high costs that are compelling many to remain at home.
What does the renowned Scotland support contribute to a major tournament no matter where it is held in the world?
“The Tartan Army is enormous. It is such a large fan base that travels worldwide. The Scotland players know that the fans will be present, supporting them, and there is a fantastic fan base. I think wherever they go, they always turn out in large numbers and they generate such a joyful atmosphere.
Do you believe many fans will be unable to attend the tournament because of the exorbitant ticket costs this year?
“Yes, there are some ridiculous prices, and I think that was also true for the European Championship, which is unfortunate because these fans are already spending a lot on travel and everything else. I think the main issue is that travel costs are enormous due to the location, so then to be faced with the ticket prices, which are very high, and then the additional costs afterwards, it is all very steep.