The Champions League anthem is one of the most iconic in football and was first used for the competition when it was established in 1992, following the rework of what was then the European Cup.
Taking inspiration from Italia 90 and Luciano Pavarotti's operatic rendition of Nessun Dorma, the Champions League theme was adapted from the classical piece Zadok the Priest, written by George Frideric Handel in 1727.
English composer Tony Britten wrote the modern reworking of the piece, which has two short verses and the chorus in its three-minute run-time. The lyrics are in UEFA's three official languages: English, French, and German. The chorus is set to the exclamations "Die Meister! Die Besten! Les grandes équipes! The champions!"
The anthem is played at the participating stadium of a game before the start of each Champions League match, in addition to the beginning and end of television broadcasts of the games.
If you're settling to watch Manchester City vs Inter this Saturday night (watching the Champions League final is free in the UK, you know), and find yourself overcome with the urge to sing along, we've got you covered – you can find the full Champions League anthem lyrics below.
What are the Champions League anthem lyrics?
Ce sont les meilleures équipes (these are the best teams)
Sie sind die allerbesten Mannschaften (these are the best teams)
The main event
Die Meister (the master)
Die Besten (the best)
Les grandes équipes (the best teams)
The champions
Une grande réunion (a big meeting)
Eine große sportliche Veranstaltung (A great sporting event)
The main event
Ils sont les meilleurs (they are the best)
Sie sind die Besten (they are the best)
These are the champions
Die Meister (the master)
Die Besten (the best)
Les grandes équipes (the best teams)
The champions
