FOL SHIRT TRIBUTE

Sunderland AFC will proudly display the Foundation of Light logo on the back of players' shirts when the Black Cats face Dinamo Zagreb at the Stadium of Light tonight.

This comes on the eve of the Foundation's 25th birthday, marking a quarter of a century of changing lives across Sunderland and the North East. With the Black Cats taking to the European stage, the tribute will shine a spotlight on the Club's official charity and the life-changing work it delivers in communities every day.

Football clubs across the country have used their shirts to celebrate and raise awareness of their charitable foundations, and Sunderland AFC's gesture is particularly meaningful as the Foundation prepares to mark this milestone anniversary.

Since its establishment on 6 November 2001, Foundation of Light has harnessed the power of football to inspire, educate and support people of all ages and backgrounds. From helping young people develop skills and confidence to improving physical and mental wellbeing, creating opportunities and tackling social isolation, the Foundation continues to make a lasting difference to thousands of lives each year.

Lesley Spuhler, Chief Executive of Foundation of Light, said: “It's a really special gesture from Sunderland AFC and one that means a great deal to everyone connected with the Foundation. To see our logo proudly displayed on the back of the players' shirts on a European night, in front of thousands of supporters, is a fantastic way to celebrate the work we do across our communities. Coming on the eve of our 25th birthday makes it even more meaningful. For a quarter of a century, we've used the power of football to change lives, and we're incredibly grateful to the Club for helping us shine a spotlight on that work and the people who make it possible.”

The shirt tribute demonstrates the shared commitment to making a positive difference beyond the pitch and the occasion provides a fitting reminder that football's impact extends far beyond 90 minutes.