Brisbane Lions Theme Song Based On

The Surprising Roots of the Brisbane Lions Theme Song

Why is the anthem of the Australian Football League team based on the French national anthem?

A tale of forgotten origins and unexpected connections

The Brisbane Lions theme song, "We Are the Pride of Brisbane Town," is an iconic tune known to every AFL fan. But few know its surprising origins: it's based on the French national anthem, "La Marseillaise."

This unusual connection dates back to the club's early days as the Fitzroy Football Club. In 1922, the club adopted a new theme song, "Sons of the Soldiers," which drew inspiration from "La Marseillaise."

Fast forward to 1996, when the Fitzroy Lions merged with the Brisbane Bears to form the Brisbane Lions. The new club retained "Sons of the Soldiers" as their theme song, adding new lyrics to reflect their Brisbane heritage.

Today, the Brisbane Lions theme song continues to inspire fans and strike fear into opponents. But its unusual origins, rooted in the heart of 19th-century French history, remain a little-known fact that adds an unexpected layer of intrigue to the team's legacy.