Barry Hearn has set his sights on increasing the top prize for the World Snooker Championship to £1 million, following the announcement that the Crucible Theatre will remain the tournament's home until 2045. The Sheffield venue is set for a £45 million revamp, including an additional 500 seats, with £10 million from public funds.
The current winner's prize has stood at £500,000 since 2019, a figure dwarfed by the £1 million Luke Littler earned for winning the World Darts Championship in January. Hearn acknowledged the gap but expressed confidence that snooker will eventually reach that milestone, though not immediately. 'We will definitely see it. But it will take a little while,' he said.
Hearn also revealed plans to more than double the total prize fund from its current £2,395,000 to £5 million 'as quickly as possible'. He attributed darts' higher prize money to its booming television rights, which have increased by up to 300% globally, while noting snooker is on a similar upward trajectory.
The World Championship will leave the Crucible for one year in 2029 and possibly 2030 during renovations, but the long-term deal ensures its historic venue remains. Hearn dismissed suggestions from players who preferred a move for higher earnings, stating: 'When you're ready to run a business, I'll let you know.'
An announcement on prize money for the upcoming World Championship, starting next month, is expected during the event.
