Barry Hearn sets deadline for Crucible decision on World Snooker Championship future
The World Snooker Championship has been held at the Crucible since the 1970s but there is doubt over its long-term future in Sheffield with the Middle East touted as a potential venue
Barry Hearn claims he wants to make a decision on where the World Snooker Championship will be held long term by the end of the year. It has been held at the Crucible since 1977 but the contract they have ends in 2027.
Plenty of fans and players want to remain at the Sheffield-based venue, but others also want an area that has a greater capacity. Those in the Yorkshire city are pushing to keep it given the money it generates, but another venue with more seats and hospitality would lead to larger prize money.
Hearn, the president of Matchroom Sport, has never been shy in admitting money drives the bus and if players want to earn more from their exploits then a change of venue may be required. He told Metro on his timeline: "I think I want to know by the end of this current year, because plans have got to be put in place based on what we decide."
Hearn has urged those involved in discussions not to test his resolve as he remains more than willing to take the tournament away from the Crucible, whose main arena only holds 980, unless changes are made.
When quizzed on discussions he said: "No, of course not. I haven't heard enough about it. I'm having a meeting with Sheffield Council in early May. I wait to hear what they're saying. The clock is ticking. I don't know if people think I'm bluffing, it would be a bad move if they did."
The BBC has extended their contract to show the Triple Crown events until 2032, which suggests it may well remain in the UK until then. Hearn though insists the financial pull of the Middle East is increasing with more and more fans emerging.
He said: "The Middle East, it's no secret, is getting more of an appetite for snooker, they're looking like the new China,' he said. 'Their events are big. The ranking event has got the same prize money as the World Championship and they want more. It's a difficult situation, a very difficult situation. You've got to think about your heart. The Crucible has been a magnificent place for me, changed my life, changed snooker players' lives, but is it yesterday?"
A joint statement from World Snooker Tour, Sheffield City Council and Sheffield Theatres earlier this month read: "Sheffield loves snooker. Sheffield City Council, Sheffield Theatres and World Snooker Tour have been working together, along with the BBC and partners across the city, to make the 2025 World Championship the best yet. We can't wait to welcome the snooker world back to the iconic Crucible theatre this month.
"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."
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