NUFC ‘First 11′ Exhibition Launches at St. James’ Park with Wor Flags Tribute
Saturday 18th May 2026 – Newcastle United v Bournemouth AFC
Ahead of kick-off at St. James’ Park, Wor Flags delivered a powerful tribute to Newcastle United FC’s first 11 players of Black heritage, with a large-scale flag display across the Gallowgate End. The nostalgic display honoured the trailblazers who paved the way for generations to come.
Two of those featured – Tony Cunningham and Andrew Cole – were watching the flag tribute unfold from the stands.
At half-time, Andrew Cole was invited onto the pitch. Reflecting on his time at Newcastle as part of “The Original Entertainers”, he spoke with pride about a team that played football, creating unbelievable memories. He also spoke about pushing forward with hard work, dedication and training – the values that took him to the top of the game.
As a role model, Cole’s story shows what can be achieved through commitment and self-belief. His presence at St. James’ Park – watching the flag display, speaking to fans and celebrating the ‘First 11’ – reminds us that football’s heroes are not just players. They are real life examples of how dedication and determination can positively impact everyone.
The ‘First 11’ exhibition
A heritage project with a purpose, Show Racism the Red Card (SRtRC) is continuing its series of ‘The First 11 Black players’ exhibitions – beginning with Newcastle United F.C. Alongside the flag tribute on the day, the ‘First 11’ exhibition was on display in the Milburn Reception. Fans gathered, reflecting on each player’s time at the club and celebrating their contributions on the pitch and the example they set off it.
The ‘First 11 Black players’ project highlights the diversity that has always existed in football and celebrates how Black players have elevated the game through talent, hard work and perseverance.
SRtRC champions these role models, and the examples they have set, to educate young people on how to be anti-racist – equipping them with the awareness of how detrimental the effect of racism is and gain knowledge and confidence to challenge racism wherever they see it. A great way to start is to gain awareness of the history of football, a popular sport in the UK, and acknowledge all those who have contributed to the success of the game.
The ‘First 11’ exhibition is part of SRtRC’s ongoing work to use football as a vehicle for positive social education. By celebrating players who broke barriers and led the way, we give young people inspiring examples to follow.
Witness the Wor Flag tribute: