Credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Mon 24 March 2025 14:00, UK

Sunderland season ticket holders may be forced to move seats if promotion is achieved. 

Sunderland remain in the hunt for a return to the Premier League for the first time since their relegation almost eight years ago. 

With eight huge games still to be played, automatic promotion appears unlikely, though the Black Cats will have an excellent chance in the Championship playoffs if form and momentum can be found ahead of it. 

However, should promotion be achieved, it may have some impact on those who attend the Stadium of Light as per a rule change back in 2017.

Sunderland supporters may have to make way for travelling fans. 

Sunderland have consistently held their own when it comes to attendance, with an average of 38,995 supporters at each home encounter. 

At the moment, the lower bowl is filled with the Red and White faithful, though that may need to change next season if they find themselves in the Premier League. 

A rule change that was implemented ahead of the 2017/18 season states that away supporters must have access to at least one block of seats pitchside, which would see the travelling support move to an area of the lower bowl.

The statement provided on the Premier League website also states that “away supporters will be seated together at all stadiums.”

Many will look at Newcastle United, though they are believed to be an exception for reasons unknown. 

Fans have often called for the away support to be moved into the lower bowl in an attempt to improve the atmosphere on Wearside, and they may not have a choice this summer. 

Sunderland need to achieve promotion first 

As interesting as the rule may be, Sunderland need to ensure that they find themselves in the position to be affected by it this summer. 

With eight games remaining, the Black Cats need to return to form urgently if they are to achieve their ultimate goal, with the latest displays doing little to provide optimism ahead of the final run-in.