(Credit: Manh Tung - Breaking Media/Imago)

James Murray

Tue 24 March 2026 16:30, UK

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Sunderland are set to smash their club-record revenue following their performances in the Premier League this season, sources have told Football Insider.

The Black Cats have posted their latest accounts for 2024-25, showing their revenue improved from £38.2million in 2023-24 to £40.3m in their promotion-winning campaign last season. 

Sunderland have enjoyed a strong start to life back in the Premier League, having moved up to 11th in the table following their 2-1 victory over Newcastle United in the Tyne-Weir derby at St James’ Park.

Regis Le Bris’s side are on course to earn more than £130m in prize money if they maintain their current position in the table.

That would provide a significant boost to Sunderland’s finances, helping them comfortably surpass the £126m club-record revenue they posted in 2016-17 – their latest campaign in the Premier League. 

How Sunderland’s revenue broke down last season

In terms of last season’s numbers, improved gate receipts were a key reason behind the £2.1m increase in revenue.

Income in that department rose from £11.6m in 2023-24 to £13.3m as the on-field performances attracted big crowds at the Stadium of Light.

Broadcast revenue increased from £10.4m to £12m after finishing fourth in the Championship table and going on to secure promotion. 

Elsewhere, sponsorship surged from £2.4m to £4m as Sunderland continue to improve their commercial operations. 

However, hospitality dropped from £8.7m to £7.6m, while retail slipped from £3m to £1.1m last season. 

Staff costs at the Stadium of Light also increased from £30.6m to £53.8m due to the significant promotion bonuses in their player and staff members’ contracts.

Meanwhile, the Black Cats recorded a pre-tax loss of £4m, which was down on the £8.6m posted in 2023-24. 

How much could Sunderland’s revenue increase this season?

While earning their place back in the Premier League is the most important element, promotion has put Sunderland in a strong position to improve their financial situation.

Alongside the substantial boost in prize money, gate receipts and sponsorship income should increase considerably this season. 

Sources say the Black Cats’ turnover is expected to improve to at least £160m, with the potential to be closer to £200m depending on their individual revenue lines and where they finish in the table.

Sunderland’s impressive recruitment has been key to helping them hold their own in the Premier League this season. 

Le Bris has added 18 new faces to his squad across the campaign, with the likes of captain Granit Xhaka proving to be an inspired signing.