Monday June 22nd 2026
Scotland fans (photo by Sebastian Pociecha)
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Drew Sandelands
Glasgow is set to twin with Boston after the Tartan Army brought “tremendous spirit” to the US city during the World Cup, as councillors are asked to back the move this week.
The mayor of Boston, Michelle Wu, reached out to Glasgow to build on the “goodwill” fostered while Scottish football fans have visited the city for games against Haiti and Morocco.
She signed a formal declaration of intent last week, which sets out Boston’s aims to explore opportunities for cooperation in areas including economic development, research and innovation, arts and culture and tourism.
Glasgow City Council will meet on Thursday and councillors will be asked to agree to go ahead with a twinning arrangement. If they approve the plan, a formal signing ceremony would then be organised.
Councillor Greg Hepburn, SNP, the council’s business manager and convener for open government, will bring a report which states the “excitement surrounding Scotland’s presence in Boston has sparked many conversations about the deep connections between our communities and the opportunities to strengthen those ties for years to come”.
It adds Boston’s mayor noted the city has been “absolutely energised” by the World Cup, particularly the “tremendous spirit and enthusiasm that Scotland and the Tartan Army have brought to Boston, not just through their passion for the game, but through their warmth, friendliness and unmistakable sense of humour”.
“They have been true ambassadors for Scotland, and for Glasgow, showing the very best of who we are as a nation,” the report states.
Mayor Wu’s declaration of intent stated: “Both cities share a commitment to investing in people as the foundation for economic opportunity, innovation, cultural vitality, and inclusive growth.
“As Boston prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States and Glasgow continues to demonstrate global leadership in culture, sustainability, education, and innovation, both cities recognise the value of stronger collaboration among residents, businesses, universities, cultural institutions, and civic leaders.”
It is hoped that strengthening ties with Glasgow will “lay the groundwork for a meaningful and mutually beneficial partnership that benefits the people of both cities”.
Glasgow is currently twinned with eight cities, including Havana, Marseille, Turin, Lahore and Bethlehem.
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