Stadium Seating Rules: Away Fans Face High Climbs

Premier League clubs agreed to ensure at least one block of seating for visiting supporters is pitchside. This rule, introduced before the 2017-18 season, aimed to enhance crowd atmosphere and interaction, especially after away goals are scored.

Newcastle United was granted special dispensation from this rule upon their promotion in 2017, an exemption that has continued. This deviation allows their away section to remain in a different location within the stadium.

As Sunderland navigates their first season back in the Premier League since the rule's inception, they may face relocation of their away section before the 2026-27 campaign, unless they too secure an exemption. Other clubs, like West Ham, have away sections at the back of their stadiums but also reserve pitchside areas.