Spain are one of the most iconic international teams and have been at every European Championship since 1996.
Their distinctive red shirts and beautiful football are a key part of UEFA’s showpiece event every four years.
But have you ever noticed that their players, fans and staff never sing when the national anthem starts? Here’s why…
What 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 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 very few in the world along with the Bosnia, Kosovan and San Marino that doesn’t have any words.
Spain vs Croatia: Date and how to follow
La Roja’s opening Group B match will take place at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Saturday, June 15.
The game will kick off at 5pm UK time.
talkSPORT will have full coverage of the match and more details will follow nearer to the tournament.
To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream.
You can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.
News Summary:
- What is Spain’s national anthem and why do their players not sing before games?
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