- The Crucible has held the event since 1977 but the contract expires in 2027
- Hearn warned that the event could move away if improvements were not made
- Talks, however, have been positive and it is hoped it will stay past contract expiry
Sheffield is confident of keeping the World Snooker Championship in the city after ‘constructive’ talks with the sport’s bosses over the last 12 months.
The Crucible, which has a capacity of just 980, has held snooker’s premier event every year since 1977 but its current contract expires in 2027.
Former World Snooker Tour chairman Barry Hearn warned last year that the tournament might move away if Sheffield City Council did not revamp the Crucible or build a new arena.
Hearn muted the possibility of taking the World Championship to Saudi Arabia or China, an idea supported by record seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan.
However, the World Snooker Tour, Sheffield City Council and Sheffield Theatres have now indicated the event is likely to stay in the city beyond 2027.
Ahead of the start of this year’s World Championship next weekend, the three organisations said in a joint statement: ‘Sheffield loves snooker. We can’t wait to welcome the snooker world back to the iconic Crucible Theatre this month.
An update has been issued on the future of the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield
The Crucible has held snooker’s premier event every year since 1977 but that has been at risk
World Snooker Tour chairman Barry Hearn warned that the venue needed to be improved or the location would be changed
‘Sheffield City Council, World Snooker Tour and Sheffield Theatres are longstanding partners. Over the last 12 months we have had constructive conversations, with national Government, and key partners, about the World Snooker Championship beyond 2027.
‘Due to the sensitive and commercial nature of these ongoing discussions, no announcement on the future of the Championship will be made by Sheffield City Council, Sheffield Theatres or World Snooker Tour during this year’s event.
‘When we can share more information with the millions of snooker fans around the world, and with the people of Sheffield, we will provide an update.’
