Spain’s players were spotted not singing the national anthem ahead of their Euro 2024 opener with Croatia in Berlin. The anthems of both nations were played before the Spain vs Croatia match at the Olympiastadion, but not a single Spanish player was seen singing their song, ‘La Marcha Real’, with many fans on social media wondering why.
Why weren’t players singing in Spain vs Croatia
The anthem, composed by Manuel de Espinosa de los Monteros in 1771, is one of four in the world lacking lyrics, alongside San Marino, Kosovo, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. It did previously have lyrics, added by General Franco during his dictatorship between 1938 and 1973. However, when Franco was removed from power, the lyrics were removed to avoid any association with his totalitarian regime.
Although some supporters sing unofficial lyrics in the stands, the players from various regions like Catalonia, the Basque Country, and Tenerife do not participate and instead remain silent. Spain, three-time winners of the competition, are placed in Group B alongside Croatia, Italy, and Albania for the tournament.
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