Welsh football fan culture is a unique thing. Struggling to live up to Wales’ historic success in rugby, football fans have had to be more resilient. But this has made them strong and instilled a sense of graciousness in fans today who have waited a lifetime to see their team thriving.

This inherently passionate, purposeful nature of supporters has not gone unnoticed. In 2016 Wales fans were officially recognised by UEFA for their ‘outstanding contribution’ to the Euros in France. Defying certain stereotypes of football fans, the Red Wall were heralded for their dedication to their team and respectful behaviour. This etiquette is weaved throughout Wales’ fans as a sort of unwritten rule, knowing the hurdles they’ve have faced to get there and the many near-misses. The chance to support their team on the biggest stage is a new phenomenon, and not an opportunity they take lightly.

It is the bucket hat that encompasses this ‘together, stronger’ feeling. Wherever Wales play, home or away, you can spot the bucket hats and retro shirts peppered throughout international crowds and are instantly comforted in knowing that Wales is near.

Forget fisherman and festivalgoers, the Red Wall will go down in the history of those who don bucket hats after the unmistakeable tricolour headwear grabs the attention of the whole world in Qatar.

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