World Championship Remains at Sheffield Crucible Until 2045

Refurbishment plans revealed 

The World Snooker Championship will remain at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield until at least 2045. The iconic venue will undergo a major £45m refurbishment, adding up to 500 seats after 2028.

The venue will receive a significant refurbishment, including up to 500 extra seats...

The World Snooker Championship is staying put at the iconic Crucible Theatre in Sheffield until at least 2045, with a possible extension to 2050. This comes after the World Snooker Tour (WST) and Sheffield City Council signed a new long-term agreement, securing the tournament's future at the venue.

The Crucible will undergo a major £45 million renovation, which includes adding up to 500 seats to its current capacity of 980, improving spectator facilities, and redeveloping backstage areas. The refurbishment is expected to take around 18 months and will be funded by a combination of public and private investment. During the renovation period, the tournament will be held at an alternative UK venue, likely in 2029 and possibly 2030.

The deal includes a renovation project to boost the stadium's capacity from 980 seats to 1,480.

The £45 million investment will be split, with £35 million coming from national and local government, and £10 million from the private sector.

“For over 50 years I have been promoting sport all over the world, but no venue on this planet means more to me than the Crucible,” said Barry Hearn, the president of Matchroom Sport.

“I am so happy that after a long period of meetings and discussions we have finally agreed a deal to stage the World Championship at its historic home – the Crucible.

“My thanks must go to Sheffield City Council for all of their hard work in ensuring this great tournament remains at its spiritual home.”

We’re Staying 🏡#TheCrucible pic.twitter.com/CeRLatKlKJ

— WST (@WeAreWST) March 24, 2026

The World Snooker Championship, held at the iconic Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, is gearing up for its 50th anniversary next year. This year's event kicks off on April 18th and runs until May 4th, with China's Zhao Xintong defending his title.

The Crucible has been the spiritual home of snooker since 1977, and despite rumors of it moving, the championship will remain there until at least 2045, following a £45 million renovation project.