Cultural Clash of the Century returns as Port Vale host Bradford City at Vale Park

Cultural clash of the century back on as Port Vale host Bradford City on 10 March

The Cultural Clash of the century football match between Port Vale FC and Bradford City AFC will now take place on Tuesday 10 March at Vale Park.

Originally scheduled during Stoke-on-Trent’s Centenary year, the fixture was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. It will now go ahead as part of the lasting legacy of the city’s 100-year celebrations and Bradford’s year as 2025 UK City of Culture.

The fixture brings together two proud cities with strong industrial roots and a deep connection to community, culture and football. The two cities are at the heart of the UK's industrial past – the world capitals of ceramics and wool capital of the world – and have a vital role in its present and future.

Match Day Highlights

• Walking Football: Bradford will bring their walking footballers for a special pre-game match.
• Commemorative Kits: Players will wear Centenary T-shirts and there will be a gift exchange before the game.
• Vale Park Atmosphere: The stadium will feature Centenary branding, including flags and banners.

Stoke-on-Trent celebrated its Centenary throughout 2025 – marking 100 years since King George V officially named it a city. Bradford served as the 2025 UK City of Culture, highlighting its status as the world’s first UNESCO City of Film.

Interestingly, the two teams met at Vale’s Old Recreation Ground in 1925, the year Stoke-on-Trent became a city, with Port Vale winning 1-0.

“We’re delighted to help round off what has been an incredible centenary year for Stoke-on-Trent and would like to thank both the Council and Bradford City for their efforts in bringing this idea to life. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to celebrate the proud history of our cities and our clubs, during our own 150th anniversary year.”

— Matt Hancock, Port Vale Chief Executive

Dan Bates, Executive Director, Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, said: “This match is set to celebrate a very special year, through Stoke’s Centenary and Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture, and will be a great opportunity for Bradford City AFC and Port Vale FC to come together on the pitch to make their cities proud."

“The rain may have delayed kick-off, but it hasn’t dampened the spirit behind this fixture. Football has a rare power to cross cultures and bring people together. We’re not ready to blow the final whistle on our Centenary just yet, and we’re pleased it can now go ahead as part of its lasting legacy.”

— Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council