Gateshead FC has confirmed plans to honour Kevin Keegan at the friendly against Newcastle United at the Gateshead International Stadium this Saturday, 25 July, with kick-off set for 12.30pm.
Tribute arrangements
The clubs say they will observe a minute’s silence prior to kick-off and players from both sides will wear black armbands as a mark of respect. Gateshead described the measure as a fitting recognition of a man “revered on Tyneside”.
“Gateshead and Newcastle United will pay their respects to Kevin Keegan at Saturday’s match at the GIS. Both teams will observe a minute’s silence ahead of kick off in Kevin’s memory, and will wear black armbands throughout the match as a mark of respect for a man revered on Tyneside.”
Match details and ticket information
The fixture is notable as the first Newcastle United first-team friendly this pre-season to be staged in front of fans. Gateshead have said that tickets remain available but are being sold online only and that sales will close at midday on Saturday. Supporters planning to attend should therefore purchase tickets in advance.
- Date: Saturday 25 July 2026
- Kick-off: 12.30pm
- Venue: Gateshead International Stadium
- Ticket sales: online only, on sale until 12pm Saturday
Context and local significance
The match follows a behind-closed-doors outing for Newcastle last weekend, when United beat Darlington 3-0 in a training-ground friendly. For Gateshead, hosting the Magpies provides both a sporting and commercial opportunity, drawing fans to the GIS and offering local supporters a rare chance to see their top-tier neighbours in the town.
Beyond the match itself, the fixture forms one part of Newcastle United’s wider pre-season schedule, which includes friendlies against Bristol City, Valencia and Everton before the Premier League campaign begins. For Gateshead, the event will be a high-profile community occasion and a moment for local football followers to pay respects.
| Selected upcoming NUFC friendlies | Date / Kick-off |
|---|---|
| Gateshead v Newcastle United | Sat 25 July — 12.30pm |
| Bristol City v Newcastle United | Wed 29 July — 7.30pm |
| Valencia v Newcastle | Sat 8 Aug — 8pm (UK time) |
Supporters intending to attend should check Gateshead FC’s website for the latest information on ticketing and any match-day guidance issued by the club. With tributes planned, the fixture will carry extra significance for many on Tyneside.
