Why is Spain called ESP? Explaining country code for 2026 World Cup team
Fans following Spain at the 2026 World Cup may be wondering why La Roja are listed as "ESP" on scoreboards and standings. Here's the explanation behind FIFA's official country code.
Why is Spain called ESP? Explaining country code for 2026 World Cup team originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Spain are back at the FIFA World Cup in 2026, looking to make another deep run on soccer's biggest stage.However, as fans follow Spain's campaign, some may be confused to see the country listed as "ESP" on scoreboards, standings and official FIFA graphics rather than simply "SPA."Here's the background on why Spain's official country code is ESP.
2026 WORLD CUP HQ:Latest World Cup news | Full World Cup schedule | Buy World Cup ticketsWhy is Spain ESP?The abbreviation comes from Espana, which is the Spanish-language name for Spain.FIFA and many other international sporting organisations use the three-letter code on scoreboards, standings and official tournament graphics.
While some fans may expect Spain to be shortened to "SPA," the country's internationally recognised sporting identifier is derived from its native name instead.The code is not exclusive to soccer. Spain competes under the same abbreviation across a range of international sports, including basketball, tennis and the Olympic Games.
Where is Spain?Spain is located in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. The country shares land borders with Portugal, France, Andorra and Gibraltar, while also including the Balearic and Canary Islands.
With a population of more than 48 million people, Spain is one of Europe's largest countries. Spanish is the nation's official language, although several regional languages, including Catalan, Basque and Galician, are also widely spoken.Spain is appearing at the World Cup for the 17th time in their history.
La Roja won the tournament in 2010 and have been a regular presence on soccer's biggest stage since making their debut in 1934. They are also among the favorites to lift the trophy in 2026 as they bid to become world champions for a second time.MORE WORLD CUP NEWS:Who will win the World Cup in
Đọc thêm từ Thể thao
Wayne Rooney names one trait Lamine Yamal has that is 'difficult to teach' after his showing for Spain in FIFA World Cup clash against Saudi Arabia
Pundit Wayne Rooney has named the trait that Spain youngster Lamine Yamal has after his display for La Roja in the FIFA World Cup.
4 WWE Superstars who can't afford to lose at Night of Champions 2026
Night of Champions 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most important WWE Premium Live Events of the year.
All Crab locations in Fisch Fischfest 2
With the arrival of Fischfest update, developers have rolled out what they describe as the biggest summer event in Fisch to date.
WWE claims former United States Champion is more dangerous than Oba Femi
WWE Superstar Oba Femi is potentially the most dominant performer on the roster right now. However, the Stamford-based promotion believes that a fellow RAW star is more dangerous than The Ruler.