As the Spanish national team gears up for Euro 2024, one intriguing aspect that has caught the attention of many fans is that the players do not sing their national anthem before the matches.

The national anthem is a significant part of international football, and it will undoubtedly be played at the European Championship (Euro 2024) this summer in Germany.

Typically, before the kickoff, both teams line up on either side of the pitch’s centerline, and the national anthem of each country is broadcast over the stadium’s loudspeakers. Sometimes, players and fans are moved to tears as they express their patriotism before the game begins. However, this is not the case for Spain.

The champions of Euro 1964, 2008, and 2012 never sing when their national anthem is played. The Spanish national anthem, known as “La Marcha Real” (The Royal March), was composed in 1761.

“La Marcha Real” became the national anthem in 1770 and was later chosen by Queen Isabella II as the national anthem of Spain during her reign in the mid-1800s. It is one of the few national anthems in the world that does not have lyrics. This anthem consists solely of a musical melody, with no official lyrics accompanying it. This makes “La Marcha Real” a unique and distinctive feature among the world’s national anthems.

Spanish dictator General Franco added lyrics to the anthem during his tenure as head of state from 1938 to 1973. However, when he was overthrown, these lyrics were removed from the national anthem.

The Spanish national team has participated in every European Championship since 1996, and fans have always associated Spain with their fluid, multi-touch playing style. As they head into Euro 2024, Spain is considered an exciting contender for the championship.

Coached by Luis de la Fuente, the team will face Croatia on Saturday, June 15, in Berlin. The wordless anthem will mark the beginning of their quest for a fourth European title.