The World Snooker Tour (WST) chairman, Steve Dawson, admits that it would be a sad day if the World Championship were to leave the Crucible, its current venue. However, he warns that this may become unavoidable. Dawson places the responsibility on the City of Sheffield council, stating that they have a limited time to demonstrate to the WST that the Crucible should retain its status as the host venue for the championship. The current home of snooker, the Crucible, is considered to be somewhat outdated compared to newer venues, technologies, and demands across the world tour.
While the WST prefers to stay at the Crucible, they acknowledge that they may need to consider relocating in order to meet the needs and expectations of the sport’s top talent. Dawson highlights ongoing conversations between the WST and the City of Sheffield council to understand their plans and assess the feasibility of staying at the Crucible. Despite the venue’s historic and prestigious image, its size limitations restrict the number of fans who can attend any single session, creating pressure to consider alternative locations for the championship. The chairman acknowledges the players’ demands and the increasing pressure to deliver more in terms of prize money, larger crowds, and higher standards for events.
He expresses the hope that the championship does not have to leave the Crucible or Sheffield, as it holds significance for the city and the sport at that time of year.
