Sunderland apologized for the inclusion of Newcastle slogans in the stadium bar
Sunderland’s attempt to invite Newcastle supporters to the FA Cup match on Saturday was met with disapproval by home supporters when the team sprayed their bitter rivals’ slogans all over a bar at the Stadium of Light. 24hscore
Sunderland typically wears red and white, while Newcastle typically wears black and white stripes.
Louis-Dreyfus posted an apology on Instagram on Thursday, saying, “I would like to apologize to everyone associated with Sunderland AFC for the events that have unfolded today.”
“Like our supporters, I was disgusted and hurt by the pictures circulating online of the inappropriate signs that have now been ripped down.”
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The cities of Sunderland and Newcastle in northeast England, separated by just 12 miles, have a long-standing football rivalry marked by historical violence and crowd issues. Having not met since March 2016, the upcoming Tyne–Wear derby on Saturday carries added significance as both teams are currently tied with 53 wins each. Sunderland admitted to a “serious error in judgment” after displaying Newcastle slogans in a bar, prompting an immediate review by the ownership group and board of directors to assess the situation. While home fans expressed discontent, Newcastle supporters welcomed the changes, praising the hospitality of their hosts on social media.