"It's worse": Fans get upset over changed Champions League anthem

Dubai: Football enthusiasts have expressed their dissatisfaction following UEFA's introduction of a revised version of the prestigious Champions League anthem for the 2026/27 season. This anthem has been an integral part of European football since 1992, when English composer Tony Britten composed it post the European Cup's transformation into the Champions League.

Britten incorporated elements of George Frideric Handel's Zadok the Priest and composed lyrics in English, French, and German, which are also UEFA's official languages.

The revised version exhibits noticeable alterations, characterized by a quicker tempo and heightened emphasis on operatic harmonies. Additionally, the percussion and horns have been adjusted, and the dramatic impact of the original version has been diminished. Fans have taken to social media platforms to voice their frustration, deeming the changes detrimental to the anthem's iconic status and historical significance.

One fan remarked, "Why can’t they just leave things alone. The original theme was perfection," while another stated, "Why are you trying to improve an anthem that is so iconic and has so much history. There’s nothing to improve, it gets worse and worse with every change."

Some fans have even called for UEFA to revert to the previous anthem. "Bring back the old Anthem version," one supporter wrote. Another added, "Old anthem was way better man." The reaction has been predominantly negative, with one fan concluding, "The Champions League has slightly changed its anthem. And it’s worse." The familiar sound of the anthem has been closely associated with the competition's pivotal events, rendering even minor modifications easily discernible by regular viewers.

Consequently, UEFA's decision to implement the new anthem has already ignited a debate among fans who would prefer the cherished recording to remain unchanged.