Home / Arts and Entertainment / Three Lions: 30 Years of Football's Unofficial Anthem
Three Lions: 30 Years of Football's Unofficial Anthem
16 May
Summary
- The song 'Three Lions' was released 30 years ago, capturing England's 1996 tournament spirit.
- Co-creators Baddiel and Skinner aimed to authentically portray the England fan experience.
- The song remains a unifying anthem sung at major events worldwide by fans.
Thirty years after its release, the England football anthem 'Three Lions' continues to resonate with fans. Co-written by comedians David Baddiel and Frank Skinner with music by Ian Broudie of The Lightning Seeds, the song captured the national mood during the 1996 European Championship. Baddiel expressed pride in the song, noting its grassroots development and unexpected popularity.
Initially intended for Euro '96, 'Three Lions' was penned by Baddiel and Skinner, who were known for their hit comedy show 'Fantasy Football League'. They sought to authentically represent the emotions of England supporters, choosing to focus on the shared experience of the team's near misses.
Liam Edwards from the England Supporters Travel Club highlighted the song's lasting significance, describing it as embedded in England football history and a symbol of unity. He noted its presence at major tournaments, from Kaliningrad to the Qatar World Cup and Euro 2020, demonstrating its enduring appeal across generations of fans.
