who are the three lions of england

The Three Lions are England’s classic football symbol: three lions passant on the national team crest, tied to England’s royal heraldry. The emblem traces back to medieval kings, especially Richard I, and later became the badge associated with the England team.

What it means

• It is not three actual people or animals in a literal sense.
• It refers to the heraldic lions on England’s royal arms.
• In football, it identifies the England men’s and women’s national teams.

Why people say it

The nickname became popular through the England football badge and the famous song “Three Lions,” which helped cement it in fan culture.

In short

If someone asks “who are the Three Lions of England,” they usually mean the England national football team.