Scotland's at the World Cup. We're toasting from the castle rock.
For the first time since 1998, Scotland have made it to the FIFA World Cup. And Stirling's footballing story doesn't stop there — the city is home to the oldest football in the world, and it's making its own trip to the tournament this June.
FIFA World Cup 2026 — Group Stage
Scotland v Brazil
Kick-off
24 June 2026
The world's oldest football is heading to the USA
Recognised by Guinness World Records, the world's oldest football has called Stirling home since it was found hidden in the rafters of Stirling Castle's Queen's Chamber during renovations in the 1970s. Testing dates it to around 1540–1570 — the era of James V and the young Mary, Queen of Scots.
This June, for the first time in its nearly 500-year history, the ball is travelling to the United States to attend Scotland's World Cup match against Brazil. It normally lives a short walk from our distillery, at the Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum.
From the castle rock to the world stage
Two stories, one city, one summer
1540s — the ball is made
A leather football, stitched by hand around a pig's bladder, is hidden above the Queen's Chamber in Stirling Castle.
2026 — Scotland qualify
For the first time since 1998, Scotland reach the FIFA World Cup, and the ball makes its first ever tournament trip.
Today — we toast the team
Stirling Distillery releases The Beautiful Game Edition Whisky, bottled to mark 154 years of Scottish football.
The Beautiful Game Edition Whisky
A smooth, well-balanced Speyside blended malt with bright citrus, Caribbean fruit and fresh green apple, bottled to celebrate 154 years of Scottish football. The bottle carries the exclusive Silver Spirit tartan, designed by Stirling kilt makers House of Henderson.
In stock now — limited bottles remain.
- Celebrate Scotland being back at the World Cup
- Make Stirling your celebritory drink
- Own a bottle that'll never be ack
Toast the Tartan Army
Explore the collection
Pair it with Stirling Gin and Castle Rock Whisky Liqueur for matchday.
Visit the distillery
Watch the match nearby and pop into The Old Smiddy below the castle.
Come on Scotland.
Whatever the scoreline, Stirling's part of football history this summer. Raise a glass to the team, the city, and the ball that got there first.
