Snooker deal signed as famed tournament staying in Sheffield for two more decades
Signing of agreement on World Snooker Championships confirmed
The future of the World Snooker Champtionships in Sheffield is secure, with confirmation today that a deal has been signed.
Both Sheffield Council and World Snooker Limited have now signed the agreement that will keep the legendary tournament in the Sheffield until at least 2045.
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It follows the announcement earlier this year that the World Snooker Championship would remain at the Crucible Theatre, and the signing marks the final step in securing the future of the sport's biggest eveny at the venue for at least another 15 years with the ability to extend by a further five years.
The agreement follows unanimous approval by the Council's Strategy and Resources Committee and provides long-term certainty for a tournament that has become synonymous with the city.
Kate Josephs, Chief Executive of Sheffield City Council, said: "Today marks a hugely important moment for Sheffield and for snooker. The Crucible and the World Snooker Championship have become inseparable over the past five decades, and I am absolutely delighted that we have now officially signed this agreement.
"As we look ahead to the 50th anniversary of the tournament in Sheffield, this agreement secures the future of one of the world's most iconic sporting events right here in its spiritual home.
"The World Snooker Championship brings visitors from across the globe, showcases our city to millions of viewers and delivers significant benefits to local businesses, jobs and the visitor economy. This is fantastic news for Sheffield and a deal that will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come."
Steve Dawson, Chairman of World Snooker Tour, said: "We have an incredible history with the Crucible and the city of Sheffield and we can now look forward to many more chapters in that story over the next 20 years and beyond.
“When we announced this year that the World Championship was staying at the Crucible, there was an outpouring of celebration among fans, players and everyone connected with our sport, and that underlined the emotional attachments that we all feel towards this iconic location. We look forward to working with Sheffield City Council on making this event bigger and better for many years to come."
Sheffield Council says the World Snooker Championship generates around £6.5 million for Sheffield and the wider region each year through spending in hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions.
The deal is expected to deliver a total economic impact of around £208 million if the option to extend the agreement until 2050 is exercised.
The tournament has been played at the Crucible since 1977, and next year will be the 50th staged there.
High ranking city politicians are delighted with the news.
Louise Haigh MP for Sheffield Heeley, said: "The Crucible is a Sheffield institution, and the World Snooker Championship is part of the fabric of our city.
"There has never been any doubt in my mind that Sheffield is the true home of snooker, so I am delighted that this agreement will keep this legendary tournament here for generations to come.
"Just a few months ago, I had the privilege of welcoming the much needed and transformational funding for the Crucible, and today’s announcement is another huge vote of confidence in its future."
Sheffield City Council leader Councillor Fran Belbin welcomed the news at a meeting of the key strategy and resources committee today.
She said: "The contract for the Crucible was signed today and it was for 20 years, not 15. This is fantastic news for the people of Sheffield."