When bridge architecture meets football!

As symbols of their community, our bridges have a knack of making appearances in unexpected places, from stamps and puzzles to beer bottles. But the latest inspiration marks a first: a Premier League football club kit!

The Keel Crossing, Sunderland’s latest pedestrian and cycle bridge across the River Wear, takes centre stage on Sunderland AFC’s 2025/26 home kit as the club returns to top-flight football.

The Black Cats have truly embraced their city’s “newest architectural icon,” featuring design details inspired by the bridge across several items of home apparel. In particular, the paving motif at the southern end of the crossing, which completes the Keel Line public artwork, has influenced key elements of the kit.

Knight Architects was appointed by VolkerStevin to lead the detailed architectural design of the Keel Crossing in 2021, working alongside Arup. The team placed particular emphasis on user experience and integration with new areas of public realm on both sides of the river.

And, as if that weren’t enough cause for celebration, Sunderland AFC kicked off their season with a 3-0 win, a brilliant start to match a brilliant design!

Photo credit: Sunderland AFC