Sunderland have officially announced that rising midfielder Chris Rigg has signed a new long-term contract at the Stadium of Light, which runs until 2030.

As a representative of Sunderland's youth training academy, Rigg made his first-team debut at the age of 15, becoming the club's youngest appearance and goal scorer in history.

To date, Rigg has played 74 official matches for the team and made 45 appearances in the promotion campaign in the 2024-25 season, including the Wembley play-off final, helping the team return to the Premier League.

With his outstanding performance, Rigg won many personal honors including the Championship Apprentice Player of the Year, the North East Sports Journalists Association Young Player of the Year and the Championship Goal of the Month.

Having just made his Premier League debut, Rigg was delighted with the contract extension: "I'm incredibly proud to have signed a long-term contract here. This has always been my only goal. From making my debut at 15 to now playing in the Premier League, it's been an incredible journey."

"I love playing here and I'm grateful to everyone who has helped me. Now, I just want to keep working hard and give more to the club and the fans."

Sunderland's director of football, Christian Spiekermann, said: "We are delighted that Rigg has committed his future to Sunderland. He has been a vital part of our success and a role model for players who have made the transition from the academy to the first team."

“His achievements are impressive for a young player, but more importantly, he, like the club, is focused on the future. We are confident he will be a key player in the long term.”

Sunderland has not only secured a young player with great potential, but has also once again demonstrated to the outside world the strength and determination of their youth training system. For fans, Rigg's story has just begun, and his future with Sunderland is worth looking forward to.