Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to provide financial support to ensure the World Snooker Championship continues to be hosted at The Crucible in Sheffield. The current contract for the tournament’s venue is expiring next year.
Local council leaders are eager to keep the championship in Sheffield, although Barry Hearn, the president of Matchroom Sport, has mentioned the possibility of considering alternative venues.
The government has intervened by offering funding, with Prime Minister Starmer holding discussions at The Crucible last month regarding the tournament’s future with council officials and local partners.
According to a source cited by The Sheffield Star, negotiations are progressing swiftly, with the Prime Minister’s involvement adding momentum and significance to the talks.
The Crucible has been the home of the Snooker World Championships since 1977, but uncertainties have arisen due to the contract situation. Hearn has indicated that Saudi Arabia could host the tournament if his prize money demands are not met.
Expressing the importance of government support, Hearn emphasized the need for Sheffield to align with their expectations to secure the championship’s future in the city.
The 2026 World Snooker Championship is scheduled to commence on April 18 and will run until May 4, with Zhao Xintong as the defending champion after defeating Mark Williams in last year’s final.
