What is Spain’s national anthem and why are their players not singing?

Spain are one of the most iconic international teams and they will be eyeing their second World Cup title this summer.

Their distinctive red shirts and beautiful football are a key part of the iconic FIFA tournament every four years.

Getty

La Roja beat England to win Euro 2024 in the last major competition, proving why they’re now favourites to win the World Cup.

But have you ever noticed that the Spanish players, fans and staff never sing when the national anthem starts? Here’s why…

Why do Spanish players not sing their national anthem?

The Spanish national anthem is called ‘La Marcha Real’ and was originally a military march.

It was composed in 1761 by Manuel de Espinosa, and it was made a state anthem in 1770 before becoming the national anthem during Queen Isabella II’s reign (1833-68).

However, during General Francisco Franco’s time in charge as dictator in the 20th century, lyrics were added and approved by Franco.

But once he was removed from power, the lyrics were taken out of the national anthem because of their association with Franco.

Other lyrics have been considered, but due to the vast diversity of people within Spain, no one has actually attempted to include any of these into ‘La Marcha Real’ for fear of upsetting anyone.

So the Spanish anthem is one of the very few in the world, along with Bosnia, Kosovo and San Marino that doesn’t have any words.

Spain didn’t sing at the European Championship two years ago when they went on to win the tournament against England.

And it will be the same in the USA, Canada and Mexico when La Roja go for glory at the World Cup this summer.

Getty

Spain national anthem: Original lyrics

As mentioned, the Spanish national anthem did previously have lyrics under the dictatorship of General Franco.

They were written by a poet named José María Pemán, but were removed from the anthem once Franco had passed.

Below are the original lyrics:

Long live Spain! Raise your arms, sons
Of the Spanish People, which rebirths anew.
Glory to the Fatherland that knew how to follow,
Over the Ocean blue, the course of the setting sun.
Triumph, Spain! The yokes and the arrows
Sing to the rhythm of the anthem of faith.
Let’s stand and sing along with them
For the new and strong life of work and peace.
Long live Spain! Raise your arms, sons
Of the Spanish People, which rebirths anew.
Glory to the Fatherland that knew how to follow,
Over the Ocean blue, the course of the setting sun.