Joe Thompson mural unveiled at Crown Oil Arena in powerful tribute to Dale hero

Monday, 22 September 2025 23:11

By David Murphy

A striking new mural honouring Rochdale AFC legend Joe Thompson has been unveiled at the Crown Oil Arena, capturing one of the most emotional moments in the club’s history.

A moving mural commemorating the life and legacy of former Rochdale footballer Joe Thompson has been completed at the Crown Oil Arena.

Painted by acclaimed Manchester street artist AKSE, the mural is located on the stadium’s exterior wall at the corner of Sandy Lane and Willbutts Lane. It features the iconic image of Joe celebrating his famous goal against Charlton Athletic in May 2018, a moment that secured Rochdale’s League One survival and etched his name into club history.

The quote “Don’t live life to survive, live life to thrive”, Joe’s own words, is emblazoned across the artwork. It serves as a lasting reminder of the strength and positivity he showed during a courageous battle with cancer, which sadly claimed his life earlier this year.

The mural was commissioned by Joe’s family in collaboration with the club. His wife, Chantelle Thompson, said: “So proud that we made this happen. Joe will be smiling.”

Joe, who began his professional career at Rochdale in 2005, made more than 200 appearances for the club over three spells and was a key part of the team that won promotion to League One in 2010. Diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013, he made a remarkable return to professional football the following year, one of several comebacks during his illness.

His final return to Spotland in 2016 led to the most defining moment of his career, when he scored the goal that kept Rochdale in League One on the final day of the 2017/18 season. He later retired in 2019, becoming a motivational speaker, life coach, football pundit and ambassador for Manchester United.

Rochdale AFC said in a statement: “Joe Thompson was — and always will be — one of our own. This mural is a heartfelt tribute to a man whose strength, spirit, and service to Rochdale AFC will never be forgotten.”