Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay said: “2026 is going to be a defining year for Scotland.
“In a few short months, we face one of the most important contests of our lifetimes, with the country at a crossroads.
“I’m talking, of course, about the World Cup. It’s the first time the Scotland men’s team will play at the tournament in 28 years. The entire nation will come to a standstill when Steve Clarke’s lads and the Tartan Army head Stateside in June.
“Aged 25, I was lucky enough to be at France ’98 to cheer on Scotland. Little did I think that it would be almost three decades before we’d reach the World Cup again. So this will be an historic occasion for us all to savour.
“But the football isn’t the only big event in the 2026 calendar. Because in May, Scots will go to the polls to vote in an election that will impact our country greatly.
“The choice couldn’t be clearer: another five years of the nationalists pushing for an independence referendum at every turn, or the Scottish Conservatives, focused on growing the economy, faster GP appointments, improving schools, and cutting your bills.
“In five months’ time, we can remove the SNP from power, move on from this wasted era of failure and division and deliver for the people of Scotland. We’ll be fighting for every vote to get it done.
“A very happy new year to you and your family.”