Queen released “We Are the Champions” in 1977. The song first appeared on the band's sixth studio album, News of the World, and was released as a single in the United Kingdom on October 7, 1977.
Freddie Mercury wrote the anthem, shaping it around a grand, participatory chorus and lyrics about victory, perseverance, and overcoming hardship. Its dramatic vocal delivery and handclap-ready rhythm helped it move naturally from rock concerts into sporting arenas, where winning teams and crowds adopted it as a celebration song.
The single was paired with “We Will Rock You,” another News of the World track written by guitarist Brian May. The two songs were often performed together and became one of the most recognizable combinations in stadium rock. “We Are the Champions” reached number two on the UK Singles Chart and number four on the US Billboard Hot 100.
Some listeners remember the song as part of a later sports event because of its constant use after championships. That association can obscure its original release date. The recording itself belongs to Queen's 1977 period, and the album and single both date from that year.