After talks about the Rolling Stones appearing in Sunderland – the club have confirmed that they wont be appearing in the Summer of 2018.
With the clubs poor performances in the league over the past few years, this would have given some fans relief and for the first time in long time, something to look forward to at the Stadium of Light.
The club were in discussions with the rock band about playing at the Stadium of Light. However, talks broke down regarding the club’s preparation for the 2018/19 season because the pitch would need to be relayed and would disrupt the preparations for the club’s new season.
The club said:
“SAFC were approached about the possibility of holding the concert, however, the date proposed would not have allowed enough time to complete pitch renovations ahead of the 2018-19 season. Both parties explored earlier dates but were unable to find a solution.”
It’s a big blow for the community and for the fans in the North East as the last time the band appeared in the North East was back in 1982. The Stones played at St James’ Park in front of 32 thousand people. It would have been a massive opportunity for younger fans who weren’t born in that era to experience one of Britains most famous acts.
The Stones haven’t toured since 2013 and would have been a chance for the well know band to appear in the area.
Sunderland City Council also released a statement regarding the concert:
“There are pros and cons to staging concerts for the club and the council respects club decisions.“
The club haven’t had any concerts since 2016 when Beyonce played during her formation tour at the Stadium of Light. It’s unclear at this stage when the club will have another major concert at the stadium although they haven’t ruled it out al together.
Gutted to see this not going ahead!