Before a ball had even been kicked in Spain’s friendly international against Iraq, an unforgettable moment had already captured the nation’s attention.
As thousands of fans filled the Estadio de Riazor in A Coruña, dozens of traditional Galician bagpipers stepped onto the pitch to perform the Spanish national anthem. The haunting sound of the gaita, Galicia’s iconic bagpipe, echoed around the stadium and was met with a long and emotional ovation from supporters.
For many Spaniards, the performance represented far more than a sporting ceremony. It was a reminder of a cultural heritage that is often less visible internationally than flamenco, sunshine and Mediterranean beaches. The Celtic traditions of northern Spain remain a deeply rooted part of the country’s identity and continue to evoke strong emotions across generations.
Videos of the performance quickly spread across social media, with many viewers describing it as one of the most moving renditions of the national anthem they had ever heard before a football match.
In a country known for its rich regional diversity, the scene in A Coruña became a powerful symbol of how local traditions can unite people under a shared national identity.
For a few minutes before kick-off, football took a back seat as the sound of Galicia’s ancient Celtic heritage captivated an entire nation.
⚽️¡Suena el himno de España interpretado por la Real Banda de Gaitas de la Diputación de Ourense!
🇪🇸 España – Irak 🇮🇶 | #SelecciónRTVE
📺Sigue el partido EN DIRECTO en @La1_tve y @rtveplay https://t.co/qvHjSXh7KG pic.twitter.com/uXdZCHtO7v
— Teledeporte (@teledeporte) June 4, 2026
