Bradford City is front‑and‑centre at the newly launched exhibition on football fanzines, with the club’s own City Gent on display for fans to explore. The showcase, opening this weekend, gives supporters a chance to trace the evolution of grassroots publishing and its link to the club’s identity.
What is the exhibition about?
The event, curated by the National Football Museum, gathers historic copies, artwork and memorabilia from fanzines across the UK. Organisers say it aims to preserve the DIY spirit that has long fueled fan voices. Over 200 items, ranging from 1970s photocopied sheets to modern digital zines, line the walls of the museum’s temporary gallery.
How does it involve Bradford City?
Bradford City’s City Gent, one of the longest‑running fanzines in the league, occupies a dedicated corner. Curator Emma Hughes explained that City Gent’s archive showcases the club’s highs and lows through fan‑generated content. "We wanted to illustrate how supporters have documented every promotion, relegation and cup run," she said. The exhibit also features a live‑reading corner where volunteers recite classic articles.
Why it matters for the club and fans?
For Bradford City, the exhibition reinforces the bond between the team and its supporters. With the club sitting 4th in League One, 77 pts from 46 games and a recent form of WDDDL, the fan narrative adds depth to a season that still feels unfinished. The fanzine’s perspective on the title race—currently 26 points behind leaders Lincoln—offers a grassroots view that mainstream media often miss. Fans say seeing their own words in a museum validates their role in the club’s story.
What’s next for the fanzine scene?
Organisers plan a series of workshops where aspiring writers can create their own mini‑zines, using City Gent as a case study. A scheduled panel on 15 July will bring former editors together to discuss the future of fan publishing in a digital age. The exhibition runs until 30 September, giving supporters ample time to visit before the club pushes for a playoff spot.
The event not only celebrates past achievements but also encourages a new generation to pick up a pen—or a keyboard—and keep the Bradford City voice alive.
Bradford City Hub