Spain's anthem has no words: why La Roja stand silent before matches

Spain face Argentina in the World Cup final, but when the pre-match formalities begin, Luis de la Fuente's players will again stand in silence. The reason is simple: Spain's national anthem has no official lyrics.

Known as 'La Marcha Real' ('The Royal March'), the anthem began life as a military march, composed in 1761 by Manuel de Espinosa. It was adopted as a state anthem in 1770 and became the national anthem during the reign of Queen Isabella II (1833-68), making it one of the oldest such pieces in Europe.

Why La Roja stand silent

Words were attached to the anthem during General Francisco Franco's dictatorship in the 20th century, written by the poet José María Pemán and approved by the regime. After Franco left power, those lyrics were dropped because of their association with his rule.

Alternative texts have been discussed since, but none has been adopted. With Spain made up of distinct regions and linguistic communities, proposals to add words have repeatedly been set aside over concerns about causing division. Instead, players, staff and supporters simply listen to the instrumental version.

Spain is among the small group of national teams whose anthem has no words, alongside Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and San Marino. The same silence accompanied La Roja at Euro 2024, where they went on to beat England in the final.

• Spain will face Argentina in the World Cup final
• 'La Marcha Real' was composed in 1761 by Manuel de Espinosa
• It became the national anthem under Queen Isabella II
• Lyrics used during the Franco era were removed after his rule
• Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo and San Marino also have wordless anthems

On the pitch, Spain's route to the final in the United States, Canada and Mexico began with a goalless draw against Cape Verde, a result that raised questions early on. De la Fuente's side improved steadily through the tournament and reached the final by beating France in the semi-final.

A win over Argentina would deliver Spain's second World Cup title, adding to their triumph in 2010 and their Euro 2024 success. Whatever the outcome, the anthem played before kick-off will again be instrumental only.