Teenager's Artwork Chosen for Scotland's World Cup Team Bus
A 13-year-old football enthusiast from Dundee, Sean McIntosh, has had his artwork featured on Scotland's World Cup team bus after winning an international competition. Sean's design is displayed on the national team's coach as the men's side returns to the World Cup for the first time in 28 years.
Sean, a pupil at Baldragon Academy, and his father Robbie were flown to the United States to watch Scotland's opening match against Haiti in Boston. His design was selected as one of 48 artworks representing each qualifying nation's official team bus.
Sean expressed his pride upon seeing his artwork in person.
"When I first spotted it, it was at the end of the street. I was so excited.
Once we got to the bus we took some photos in case we didn't see it again."
Winning Design Inspired by Scotland's Victory
The schoolboy described his reaction to winning the competition as "over the moon." He combined his passion for art and football in his design, which was inspired by Scotland's thrilling 4-2 victory over Denmark at Hampden Park in November last year.
Sean explained the elements of his design:
"It's like a mix of celebrations.
(Scott) McTominay holding the corner flag when he's scored or they've won against Denmark, then there's a wee group celebrating.
I've got the word Scotland in a very Scottish font on top, with the words underneath saying No Scotland No Party."
Teacher's Praise and Reaction to the Win
Beth Fox, Sean's art and design teacher, submitted the school's entries for the competition. She remarked on the quality of Sean's work:
"When I saw Sean's, I thought this is exceptionally good and I could just tell that he'd put a lot into it."
Upon learning of Sean's success, Beth said she was astonished:
"I couldn't believe it when I received an email telling me that Sean's design had won.
I had to read it about ten times because obviously you don't expect that, even though I knew how amazing his design was.
You think it's out of so many people in Scotland.
It just shows you've got to be in it to win it."
Following the announcement, Beth contacted Sean's parents. Sean recalled the moment:
"Dad called me through. It seemed like I was in trouble because he said 'Your art teacher's just phoned me and it's the middle of the holidays, do you know what that could be about?'
I was like, 'what have I done?' Then he said I'd won the competition.
It took me a while to process it but once I did I was over the moon, really excited."
Competition Details and Family Connection
The competition was organised by FIFA and Hyundai. Sean and his father Robbie are Dundee United season ticket holders.
Robbie expressed his anticipation for the trip with his son and reflected on Scotland's last World Cup qualification:
"I remember the Tartan Army travelling through the streets of Lyon at the time to the final game against Morocco in St Etienne.
I'm just delighted Scotland have qualified again.
It's going to be a really unique experience for us as father and son."
Robbie also shared that he was 17 and living in France when Scotland last qualified for the tournament in 1998.
Sean summed up the significance of the experience:
"I'll remember it all my life.
It will probably be the best thing I'm going to achieve."
