Why Do Spain’s Players Stay Silent During Their National Anthem?

Before Spain’s Euro 2024 match against Croatia in Berlin, something unusual caught the attention of fans worldwide. While Croatia’s players sang their national anthem with gusto, the Spanish team stood in silence as La Marcha Real, their national anthem, played through the stadium.

This silence is not accidental but rather a deliberate choice rooted in Spain’s history. Unlike many other countries whose anthems have words, Spain’s anthem is purely instrumental.

It was composed over 250 years ago as a military march and later became the official anthem in the 18th century.

During the rule of General Francisco Franco from the late 1930s to the early 1970s, lyrics were added to the anthem to promote national pride. However, after Franco’s regime ended, those lyrics were removed to avoid any associations with his dictatorship.

Despite occasional attempts to introduce new lyrics, including proposals from the Spanish Olympic Committee, none have been officially adopted. This has led to the anthem remaining without words, a symbol of Spain’s diverse cultural identities and its ongoing journey to reconcile its past.

While fans sometimes sing unofficial lyrics in support, the players-representing regions like Catalonia and the Basque Country, choose to remain silent, respecting Spain’s complex history and celebrating its unity in diversity.

As Spain continues its journey in Euro 2024, this silent tradition serves as a reminder of the country’s unique approach to national identity and unity.