Newcastle United supporters remain in limbo regarding St James’ Park’s future.
Newcastle United CEO David Hopkinson has stressed the importance of the club being “in the centre of the city” to drop a huge hint on St James’ Park’s future.
Brad Miller, Newcastle’s Chief Operating Officer and head honcho behind the stadium call, promised fans a decision in “early 2025” while speaking at an event last year. It is now September and no update has been given on the 145-year-old ground.
Supporters remain torn on whether the Magpies should bulldoze their historical home for a 21st-century, multi-purpose stadium. A site on the adjacent Leazes Park has been mooted but is also facing resistance from local residents - with an objection gaining 28,000 signatures.
David Hopkinson on St James' Park
Speaking to the club website, Hopkinson - who arrived as the new Toon supremo last week - dropped a big hint on St James’ Park’s direction. He said: "Each team I worked for was the most important thing in that community. And the arena or stadium is situated in the centre of the city. I haven't worked for one where it was in a suburb, 15 miles from downtown.
“That is really important. Where ScotiaBank Arena is in Toronto, or where the Bernabeu is in Madrid, right on Castellana. Where Madison Square Garden is, the absolute heart of Manhattan. Where St James' Park is in Newcastle. Location matters.
"What’s clear to me is how much the pride people in Newcastle have for their community is expressed as love for Newcastle United. That's awesome. That's energising. That's exciting. That's what matters. Not every team in every community can claim that."
Yasir Al-Rumayyan on David Hopkinson
Newcastle chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan welcomed Hopkinson to Tyneside following Darren Eales’ departure. He said: "We are delighted to welcome David to Newcastle United. David is an outstanding executive whose track record across global sport and entertainment speaks for itself.
"His experience and strategic capabilities will be invaluable as we continue to build on the club's presence locally and grow it globally on and off the pitch. David's leadership will be critical as we build upon what we have already achieved since the acquisition towards an exciting future and sustainable success. I would like to personally thank Darren Eales for his exceptional work and leadership, as well as his friendship, over the last three years."
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Jamie Reuben weighs in
Co-owner Jamie Reuben added: “David's arrival as CEO comes at a crucial time for the club and I am confident that he will prove to be an excellent fit for the role. He brings a wealth of experience in leadership positions at some of the biggest names in world sport, with an incredibly strong foundation to build upon."
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