Sunderland AFC, established in 1879, is one of England’s oldest football clubs. Known as The Black Cats, the team plays in League One and boasts a rich history of resilience and achievement. Over the decades, the club’s crest has undergone numerous transformations, reflecting its evolution while preserving its traditional roots.

Sunderland AFC Logo Evolution

The club’s emblem has experienced several redesigns, with the iconic red-and-white striped theme introduced in the 1960s. Each iteration has retained core elements that pay homage to the club’s heritage while modernizing its appeal.

1963 — 1972
The first striped logo debuted in 1963, featuring a shield divided into a red-and-white vertical stripe pattern. The upper section, colored light blue with wavy edges symbolizing water, carried a black silhouette of a ship—a nod to Sunderland’s maritime heritage.

A black circle resembling a football sat in the center of the striped area, adorned with white lines and the letters “AFC.” The shield encapsulated the club’s identity: its coastal roots, footballing passion, and traditional values.

1972 — 1977
In 1972, the crest underwent a bold revamp. The upper blue portion turned black, and the ship silhouette became white, lending the logo a more striking and masculine appearance. This design, however, lasted only five years.

1977 — 1991
The blue color made a comeback in 1977, albeit in a darker shade. The serif typography from the previous version persisted, while the football design in the black circle became subtler with thinner white lines.

1991 — 1999
Returning to black for the upper shield portion, this version was identical to the 1977 crest, differing only in the color.

1999 — Today
The club introduced a modernized crest in 1999, adding complexity and grandeur. The new emblem features a shield split into four quarters:

• Red-and-white stripes occupy the top-right and bottom-left quarters, staying true to the team’s colors.
• Solid red sections with golden detailing adorn the top-left and bottom-right quarters.

A black and red heraldic ornament sits atop the shield, with a horizontal red ribbon displaying the club’s name in white letters. Two black lions flank the shield, giving the crest a regal and traditional aesthetic.

Sunderland’s Heritage and Identity

The consistent use of red-and-white stripes in its emblem symbolizes Sunderland’s unwavering connection to its roots. The maritime elements, such as the ship and water-inspired designs, reflect the city’s seafaring history, while the addition of lions and intricate details conveys strength and prestige.

As Sunderland AFC continues its journey, the crest stands as a testament to its resilience, tradition, and commitment to the sport. With its modernized yet historical design, the emblem encapsulates the club’s enduring legacy on and off the pitch.