The World Snooker Championship will remain at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield until at least 2045, following a new long-term deal between World Snooker Tour and Sheffield City Council. The agreement includes an option to extend to 2050, ensuring the sport’s most prestigious event stays at its spiritual home since 1977.
As part of the deal, the Crucible will undergo a £45 million renovation after the 2028 tournament, funded by government investment. An extra 500 seats will be installed, increasing capacity from 980 to 1,500. Barry Hearn, president of Matchroom Sport, admitted the funding was decisive, noting the venue was no longer fit for purpose without the upgrade.
Hearn acknowledged that sentiment played a role in the decision, despite previous calls for a larger venue. He said the Crucible holds personal significance, as Steve Davis’s 1981 title win there led to the formation of Matchroom. Hearn stated he would have “hated himself” had he moved the event, and that without the Crucible, “snooker just isn’t the same.”
The deal was not universally supported, with Hearn hinting his son Eddie was among those against it. Eddie, who focuses on the business of sport, lacks the same emotional attachment. Hearn also revealed that had Sheffield not secured government funding, a move was likely, with interest from Saudi Arabia and China.
