The Stadium of Light has been the proud home of Sunderland AFC since 1997 and is one of England’s largest and most iconic football stadiums. With a capacity of almost 49,000, it stands as a symbol of the club’s rich history, industrial past, passionate supporters and ambition for the future.
Named in tribute to the region’s proud coal mining heritage, the stadium reflects Sunderland’s identity, resilience and community spirit. On matchdays, thousands of supporters come together to create one of the most memorable atmospheres in English football, making every visit a special experience
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to support the Black Cats once again, the Stadium of Light offers an unforgettable experience for football fans of all ages.
History
Following almost a century at the famous Roker Park, Sunderland AFC moved into the Stadium of Light in 1997 to provide a modern home capable of supporting the club’s ambitions and to increase much needed capacity and revenue. The stadium had an original capacity of 42,000
In the summer of 2000 Sunderland increased the capacity of the North Stand, The expansion added a second tier to the stand, which increased the overall stadium capacity to 49,000
The move marked a new chapter in Sunderland’s proud history while ensuring supporters could continue creating unforgettable memories for generations to come.
The stadium was officially opened in July 1997, with Sunderland entertaining Ajax in a prestigious friendly to mark the occasion. Since then, the Stadium of Light has hosted Premier League football, international fixtures, concerts and countless memorable moments that have become part of Sunderland folklore.
Picture courtesy of Colin Roberts
Matchday Experience
There is nothing quite like a matchday at the Stadium of Light. Hours before kick-off, supporters gather around the ground, creating an exciting atmosphere filled with anticipation, songs and the famous red and white colours.
Fans can visit the official club shop, enjoy food and refreshments, meet fellow supporters and soak up the pre-match atmosphere before taking their seats. As kick-off approaches and the stadium fills, the roar from nearly 49,000 passionate Mackems creates an unforgettable experience that every football supporter should witness at least once.
Stadium Tours
The Stadium of Light isn’t only open on matchdays. Sunderland AFC offers official guided stadium tours throughout the year, giving supporters and visitors the opportunity to experience areas usually reserved for players and staff.
During the tour, visitors can explore the home dressing room, walk through the players’ tunnel, stand pitchside, sit in the dugouts and discover fascinating stories from Sunderland AFC’s proud history. It’s the perfect experience for lifelong supporters and first-time visitors alike.
The Stadium of Light is much more than a football stadium. Throughout the years it has welcomed some of the world’s biggest music artists, transforming into one of the North East’s premier live entertainment venues
Global stars including Oasis, Bruce Springsteen, Coldplay, Beyoncé, Pink, Take That, Kings of Leon, Foo Fighters and Rihanna have all performed at the stadium, attracting thousands of visitors from across the UK and beyond.
These events showcase the Stadium of Light as not only the home of Sunderland AFC but also one of the region’s leading destinations for world-class entertainment.
Beyonce in concert at the Stadium of Light during the summer of 2016. Picture Courtesy of Sunderland Vibe
Did You Know?
⚽ The Stadium of Light was built on the site of the former Wearmouth Colliery.
👥 It is one of the largest football stadiums in England.
🌍 Fans from all over the world visit every season.
🎵 It regularly hosts major concerts and events.
⚽ It has hosted International football & rugby matches.
🏟️ Guided stadium tours are available throughout the year.
👥 The Stadium of Light capacity can easily be increased.
Imagine extending the whole upper tier of the Stadium of Light. It would increase the capacity to around 65,000 (Image partly AI generated)
🌍 Visit Sunderland
A visit to the Stadium of Light is only part of what Sunderland has to offer. While you’re here, take time to discover our beautiful coastline, award-winning beaches, historic landmarks, museums, parks, restaurants and vibrant city centre.
Whether you’re travelling from elsewhere in the UK or supporting Sunderland AFC from overseas, Sunderland offers a warm welcome and plenty to explore before and after the match.
Seaburn Beach part of the beautiful Sunderland coastline. (Pictures courtesy of Colin Roberts)
❤️ Wearside Worldwide
At Wearside Worldwide, our aim is to connect Sunderland supporters across the globe while celebrating everything that makes our football club and city so special. We hope this page inspires you to visit the Stadium of Light, experience the incredible atmosphere and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Thank you for visiting the Stadium of Light page. We hope to welcome you to Sunderland soon, where unforgettable memories await both on and off the pitch.
