We Are the Champions was written by Freddie Mercury and released by Queen in 1977 on the album News of the World. Originally a rock anthem about perseverance and victory, it quickly became a staple at sporting events, played after championship wins and trophy presentations around the world. Its chorus has since become shorthand for triumph in popular culture, which is why short clips circulate widely in edits, memes and celebration videos decades later, instantly signalling that someone has won.