Here’s a record most fans don’t know: Uruguay’s national anthem is the longest in the world. The two-time world champions — yes, they won the very first World Cup in 1930 — face Spain on June 26. Settle in for the story of an epic anthem.
| Anthem | Himno Nacional de Uruguay |
| Lyrics | Francisco Acuña de Figueroa |
| Music | Francisco José Debali |
| Claim to fame | Longest national anthem in the world |
| Language | Spanish |
The World’s Longest Anthem
In its full form, Uruguay’s anthem runs around five minutes across eleven verses and a recurring chorus — comfortably the longest national anthem on the planet. Thankfully for everyone’s lungs, a shortened version (chorus plus first verse) is performed before matches.
The lyrics were written by Francisco Acuña de Figueroa with music by Francisco José Debali, and the anthem dates to the 1840s.
Uruguay National Anthem: An Anthem Worthy of Champions
Uruguay’s football pedigree is staggering for a nation of just 3.5 million: they won the inaugural 1930 World Cup on home soil and stunned Brazil to win again in 1950 (the “Maracanazo”). The grand, sweeping anthem fits that outsized history.
What It Means
The anthem’s defining line — “¡Orientales, la patria o la tumba!” (“Easterners, the homeland or death!”) — is a fierce declaration of independence and freedom. Full details on Wikipedia.
More World Cup 2026 Music
More World Cup 2026 anthems & music: Mexico · Brazil · Argentina. See also our history of World Cup anthems and who sings the official 2026 song.
La Celeste’s Enduring Legacy
For such a small country, Uruguay’s football history is almost unbelievable. They won the inaugural World Cup in 1930 and stunned hosts Brazil to lift it again in 1950 — the famous “Maracanazo” — and they’ve produced world-class talent in every generation since.
That heritage gives the world’s longest anthem a fitting grandeur. Even in its shortened matchday form, “La Celeste” singing their anthem is a reminder that Uruguay always plays with the weight of history — and the belief that it can be repeated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Uruguay’s anthem so long?
In full it has eleven verses and runs about five minutes, making it the longest national anthem in the world; a shortened version is used at matches.
What is Uruguay’s national anthem called?
The “Himno Nacional de Uruguay,” with lyrics by Francisco Acuña de Figueroa and music by Francisco José Debali.
What does the Uruguay anthem mean?
It’s a powerful declaration of independence and freedom, famously vowing ‘the homeland or death.’
When does Uruguay play at the 2026 World Cup?
In this schedule, Uruguay face Spain on June 26 in the group stage.