Bubble transport set to return for Tyne-Wear derby in December
Written by Dillon Carlyle on 20th October 2026
The Tyne and Wear derby has been confirmed to take place on Sunday 6th December at 2pm on St James’ Park. It has been confirmed that the Sunderland fans making their way to St James’ Park in December will have to use arranged transport following a decision that has been made by Newcastle’s Safety Advisory Group (SAG). Sunderland have also had their away allocation lowered to 2,200 from 2,528.
The decision has come under scrutiny from both the Newcastle and Sunderland sides, with supports feeling they should be able to get to the match of their own accord.
Newcastle United Supporters Club said: “NUSC are against the reduced allocation and bubble transportation of fans to any derby games we would like NUFC and Sunderland fans to receive the full allocation and be able to travel at there own will for both derby games this season.”
Northumbria Police said the decision relates to incidents from the derby last season. A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said: “We know most supporters simply want to attend the game, support their team and enjoy what is a hugely anticipated fixture.
“As part of the established Safety Advisory Group (SAG) process, we provided our professional assessment of the policing and public safety considerations associated with the movement of away supporters to and from St James’ Park.
“Our assessment considered incidents during the derby earlier in the year, where missiles were thrown and fireworks discharged into large crowds, including near police horses.”
Sunderland AFC have released a statement on the bubble transport arrangements made for their supporters: “Throughout this process, the Club has engaged with the relevant authorities, setting out clearly our concerns about the impact of a full bubble operation on Sunderland supporters, particularly the restrictions on individual travel choices and the additional inconvenience for supporters.
“Whilst we do not agree with the decision that has been reached, we recognise that this decision will disappoint many supporters who would prefer to make their own travel arrangements. While respecting the SAG’s decision, we have sought clarity on the revised risk assessment and requested transparency as to how the end decision has been made.”
Sunderland travel to St James’ Park on December 6th to face Newcastle United in the Premier League.
