Sunderland have received an important decision regarding away supporter arrangements at the Stadium of Light ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
However, while the ruling provides clarity for the club, it has sparked frustration among travelling fans online.
Away supporters to remain in North Stand Upper at Stadium of Light
The Premier League has now officially approved a request from the north-east outfit to keep visiting supporters in the North Stand Upper at the Stadium of Light for the 2026/27 season.
The arrangement has been granted as a one-season dispensation while the Premier League continues reviewing Sunderland’s request for a permanent exemption.
The Black Cats' case was supported by an independent safety assessment and endorsed by the local Safety Advisory Group, which concluded that retaining away supporters in their current location represents the safest operational setup.
In a recent statement, Sunderland thanked stakeholders for their support throughout the process and confirmed that discussions with the league will continue as they pursue a longer-term solution.
FGG says: Travelling supporters are unhappy with this update
Despite the safety backing, many away supporters have voiced frustration with the decision.
Responses to the club’s announcement on social media show fans from rival clubs criticising the location of the away end in the upper tier, arguing it creates distance from the pitch and dampens atmosphere.
“One of the worst away ends in football,” one supporter voiced, while another labelled it a “scandalous” decision.
While Sunderland may see the ruling as a practical solution for stadium operations, the reaction highlights a wider debate about how visiting supporters are accommodated across modern stadiums.