The 2026 World Snooker Championship final is set to captivate audiences worldwide, with comprehensive live coverage across BBC and TNT Sports. Fans can expect expert analysis and uninterrupted action as the two finalists battle for the coveted title.
How to Watch the World Snooker Championship Final
BBC Television Coverage: The final will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC Two, with the broadcaster switching channels to accommodate other programming. This free-to-air coverage features expert analysis from snooker legends including Steve Davis, John Parrott, and Dennis Taylor.
BBC iPlayer and Digital: For streaming enthusiasts, every frame of the final is available live and on-demand via BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website. These digital platforms offer an uninterrupted feed, ensuring viewers catch every safety battle and century break.
TNT Sports Broadcast: Alternatively, the final is available on TNT Sports channels. Sunday's action, both afternoon and evening, will be screened on TNT Sports 3.
HBO Max Streaming: Following its 2026 UK launch, viewers can stream TNT Sports’ coverage through the HBO Max app with a subscription that includes the sports add-on, offering flexibility on mobile devices or smart TVs.
Session Start Times and Schedule
Sunday Afternoon Session: The first session begins at 1pm on Sunday, May 3, featuring the opening eight frames. BBC coverage starts at 1pm on BBC One.
Sunday Evening Session: The second session starts at 7pm on Sunday, typically consisting of nine frames. BBC coverage begins at 7pm on BBC Two.
Monday Afternoon Session: On Monday, May 4, the third session starts at 1pm, a crucial penultimate session. BBC coverage begins at 1pm on BBC Two.
Monday Evening Session: The final session starts at 7pm on Monday and continues until a winner is crowned. The first player to reach 18 frames becomes world champion. BBC coverage begins at 7pm on BBC Two.
Defending Champion
The 2025 World Snooker Championship was won by Zhao Xintong, who defeated Mark Williams 18–12 in the final. He became the first mainland Chinese player to win the event but will not defend his title, having lost to Shaun Murphy in the quarter-finals.
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