Hearts

Ally McCoist has never been short of stories, but even by his own standards, one tale he recently shared left an Edinburgh audience in disbelief — and laughter. Speaking in the capital, the former Rangers and Scotland striker revealed how he once found himself separating players from Hearts and Hibernian during a fiery derby clash… while wearing the Hearts mascot costume. The incident dates back to the mid-1990s, a time when Edinburgh derbies were rarely short on needle. McCoist, still an active player at Rangers at the time, was in the city on media duties for a high-profile match at Tynecastle. What was meant to be a routine appearance took an unexpected turn after a pre-match visit to George Street, where a few celebratory drinks led to an impulsive decision that would become part of Scottish football folklore. Spotting the Hearts employee responsible for donning the club’s Hearty Harry mascot outfit, McCoist struck up a conversation and suggested a switch. What began as a light-hearted prank quickly escalated into something far more surreal. Moments later, McCoist found himself fully disguised, oversized head and all, making his way towards the tunnel as half-time approached — blissfully unaware of the chaos unfolding below. As tempers flared between players from Hearts and Hibs following a bruising first half, the tunnel became the scene of a heated confrontation. Into the middle of it walked Hearty Harry. Or rather, Ally McCoist in disguise. With players squaring up and officials struggling to regain control, the costumed figure stepped in, physically separating opposing players who had no idea who was behind the mascot’s grin. Arms outstretched, McCoist recalled grabbing hold of senior figures from both sides in an attempt to calm the situation. To the astonishment of everyone present, the fight was broken up by a club mascot. Not a steward. Not a referee. A mascot. Only later would those involved realise just how bizarre the intervention truly was. Remarkably, McCoist then returned to the pitch to perform the mascot duties as if nothing had happened, dancing along the touchline and playing to the Hearts support. It was only after being encouraged to take a bow that the full reveal took place. Announced over the stadium microphone, McCoist removed the mascot head in front of thousands of stunned supporters, triggering disbelief in the Hearts end and predictable fury from the visiting Hibs fans. The story was shared during an appearance at the Edinburgh International Book Festival, where McCoist was promoting his autobiography Dear Scotland: On the Road with the Tartan Army. The book reflects not only on his glittering playing career but also on his life travelling with Scotland supporters and his deep affection for the national game north of the border. Now one of the country’s most recognisable football broadcasters, McCoist has enjoyed a hugely successful second career in the media. Regularly appearing on television and radio across the UK, he has become known for his warmth, humour and unmistakable passion for football. Recently voted the nation’s favourite co-commentator by a wide margin, his popularity shows no sign of fading. Despite working extensively in England, McCoist also offered a typically candid view on Scotland’s relationship with the Auld Enemy. While he admits he is happy to see England do well in major tournaments, he made it clear there is a limit to that goodwill. Progress beyond a certain stage, he joked, is where support turns to discomfort — a sentiment many Scottish fans will recognise. The evening also took a more reflective turn when McCoist spoke about the late Walter Smith, dedicating a chapter of his book to the man he credits as one of the most influential figures in his life. Smith, who managed McCoist at Rangers and later appointed him as assistant with the Scotland national team, was described with deep affection and respect. McCoist spoke of Smith’s unique blend of kindness and authority, portraying him as a leader who commanded loyalty without ever demanding it. He placed Smith alongside the most revered names in British football history, pointing to near-misses at the very highest level as evidence of his managerial brilliance. From tequila-fuelled mascot antics to heartfelt tributes to a mentor, McCoist’s stories captured the full range of his football life — chaotic, emotional, humorous, and deeply rooted in the Scottish game. It was a reminder that while trophies and titles define careers on paper, it is moments like these that truly endure.