Derek Rae Reflects on Scotland's Boston World Cup Presence, His Massachusetts Roots, and Being Known as 'the Video Game Guy'

June 13, 2026 - 18:35

Derek Rae has spent decades calling soccer matches for audiences around the world, but his connection to Massachusetts runs deep. The veteran broadcaster, known for his distinctive Scottish accent and encyclopedic knowledge of the game, recently spoke about his pride in Scotland's presence at the Boston World Cup events and the personal ties that make the region feel like home.

Rae, who has been the voice of FIFA video games for years, recalled a moment that captures his unique place in sports culture. "When I made my way to the other end of the drive-through, he said, 'Are you that guy from the video game?' And I said, 'Actually, yes I am.'" That recognition, he says, comes from millions of players who grew up hearing his commentary while playing FIFA on consoles.

But Rae's work goes far beyond gaming. He has covered major tournaments including the World Cup and European Championship for broadcasters like ESPN and BBC. His Massachusetts ties come from years spent living and working in the Boston area, where he became a familiar voice for local soccer fans.

Seeing Scotland participate in World Cup events in Boston holds special meaning for Rae. He described the pride of watching his home nation's players compete on a global stage in a city he considers a second home. The combination of Scottish heritage and New England hospitality, he said, created an atmosphere that felt both electric and welcoming.

For Rae, being called "the video game guy" is not a slight. It is a badge of honor that connects him to a generation of fans who discovered soccer through digital play. And as Scotland continues to make its mark on the international scene, Rae will be there, calling the action with the same passion that made him a household name both on screen and in the game.