A new version of Three Lions has been released ahead of the World Cup, and fans have been left crying over the hilarious yet emotional track. David Baddiel, Frank Skinner and The Lightning Seeds have released the updated version of their 1996 football anthem as England are gearing up for their first game at the Qatar World Cup on Monday.
The original song was released ahead of England’s 1996 Euro campaign and has become synonymous with the national team, belted out in pubs and homes across the country every time the Three Lions – and Lionesses – take to the biggest stage in world football. The new track is the third iteration of the anthem, after a second version – Three Lions ‘98 – was released ahead of the 1998 World Cup.
The new Three Lions (It's Coming Home for Christmas) has a more ‘Christmasy’ feel, as the World Cup takes place across November and December, rather than its usual summer slot. The updated track contains references to the Lionesses’ 2022 Euros win, and several quips about the upcoming winter World Cup.
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The video shows the comedy duo and Lightning Seeds frontman Ian Broudie singing along, spliced alongside their younger selves from the original iconic video. The anthemic “three lions on a shirt” line has been replaced with a festive “three lions on a sleigh,” as Baddiel and Skinner top a Christmas tree with the coveted Jules Rimet trophy.
“Yule Rimet still gleaming,” the comedians belt out, wearing festive jumpers. “A football Christmas song, not at all demeaning.”
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The song even sees Skinner don the role of Noddy Holder belting out his iconic “It’s Chriiiiistmaaas” line from Slade’s Merry Xmas Everybody, replacing the lyric with “It’s Englaaaaand,” as swathes of England fans – and former footballer Geoff Hurst – dance around him. Fans have reacted positively to the new track, with some getting emotional as another huge moment in English football is just days away.
British film and TV director James Moran tweeted: “Openly crying on a packed train, thank youuuuu.”
TV presenter and author Richard Osman simply said: “Weeping. Brilliant.”
Dominic Trofa said: “I love this!!! They’ve made it more enjoyable and funny even with it being Christmas-y.”
“Love the original and this is great lyrics in the times we are in and still catchy as hell, love it,” Jamie Willis added.
The World Cup kicks off on Sunday (November 20) as hosts Qatar face Ecuador. England are preparing to face Iran for their first game of the tournament on Monday at 1pm UK time, while Wales against USA kicks off at 7pm the same day.
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