More than 35,000 spectators attended the two-day event, which brings together the best pipers and drummers from around the globe to compete in what is described as the ‘ultimate battle of the bands’.

This year’s championships finished on Saturday, August 16, with last year’s winners, Inveraray & District Pipe Band, retaining the top title.

(Image: Colin Mearns) (Image: Colin Mearns) (Image: Colin Mearns)

It is the fourth time that the Scottish band, from Argyll and Bute, has been crowned World Pipe Band Champions, first in 2017, then again in 2019, 2024, and 2025.

Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band of Lisburn, Northern Ireland, took home second place while North Lanarkshire’s Shotts & Dykehead Caledonia Pipe Band won third place.

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(Image: Colin Mearns)

(Image: Colin Mearns) (Image: Colin Mearns)

Colin Mulhern, Chief Executive of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, said: “We are grateful to all of the competing bands, supporters and spectators who joined us for our 2025 championships.

“This year’s ‘Worlds’ proved to be a fiercely fought contest, and our 2025 World Pipe Band Champions, Inveraray & District Pipe Band, deserve huge congratulations for winning the global title for a second year running.

“Every one of the bands can take great pride in their wonderful performances. They gave us a splendid competition and demonstration of their dedication to excellence, and their outstanding skills and talent.”

The event was delivered by Glasgow Life on behalf of The Royal Pipe Band Association with support from EventScotland.

Bailie Annette Christie, chair of Glasgow Life, added: “Glasgow is proud to host the global pinnacle of the competitive piping calendar, and of the city’s long association with ‘the Worlds.

“The championships are hugely valued by us as they shine an international spotlight on Glasgow as a fantastic and welcoming destination for events, attract visitors here from all over the world – boosting tourism and contributing greatly to the Scottish and the city’s economy.

“We are grateful to all of this year’s fantastic competitors for playing their part in ensuring the great success of the 2025 ‘Worlds’ – and our congratulations go to Inveraray & District Pipe Band on retaining the World Champions title.”

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(Image: Colin Mearns) (Image: Colin Mearns) (Image: Colin Mearns)

The 2025 World Pipe Band Championships saw 15 countries represented by 207 bands, 53 of which were from overseas destinations such as Australia, Oman, and Zimbabwe.

Scotland had the largest national contingent with 122 bands, followed by Northern Ireland with 25 bands, and the USA with 14 bands.

Audiences from all over the world were able to view the highlights from the championships on both days via live streaming.

This year, the major event included a dedicated youth competition. More than 1500 under-18s took part in the new feature, which celebrated and recognised young talent in piping and drumming.

The grade winners were: Juvenile – George Watson’s College; Novice Juvenile A – West Lothian Schools; Novice Juvenile B – St John’s College Harare of Zimbabwe.

Highlights from the 2025 World Pipe Band Championships will be broadcast on BBC Scotland on Thursday, August 21.