Sunderland AFC is implementing a significant investment programme to ensure that the Stadium of Light maintains the exceptionally high standards set when it opened.

The most significant aspect of the work will see a rolling replacement programme for the stadium’s seats, which will commence soon.

The installation will be carried out in a number of phases, to fit around the busy itinerary of football matches and other major events. The first phase will see seats in the east stand replaced.

The remaining seats will be installed gradually, in order to minimse any disruption to the stadium operations.

Sunderland AFC’s CEO, Martin Bain said: “After almost 20 years, naturally some areas of the Stadium of Light are in need of a face-lift. It is a magnificent home for our football club and we want to ensure that it is a stadium our fans can continue to be proud of.  The replacing of the seats will be the most visual aspect of the work we are undertaking and is something I am sure Sunderland fans will welcome”. 

The stadium’s largest hospitality and function room, the Montgomery Suite – named after the much-loved 1973 goalkeeping hero – will also undergo a make-over, bringing a contemporary new look to the popular matchday hospitality venue. 

Added to this, Sunderland’s squad will see a new-look tunnel as they take to the field against Middlesbrough in the opening home game of the season, with imposing life-sized graphics featuring first-team players and a nod to the mining heritage of the site, adorning the walls.