Tickets still remain for World Snooker Championship at The Crucible

The Sheffield tournament will be the first sporting competition included in Government plans for a pilot programme enabling the safe return of mass gatherings and indoor events as lockdown restrictions ease in England.

This year’s event runs from Saturday to May 3 and will see Ronnie O’Sullivan try to match Stephen Hendry’s record of seven world titles when he defends his Crucible crown, which he won with victory over Kyren Wilson in August.

All of those attending will have to take a Covid-19 test before they arrive, and must show confirmation of a negative result to enter the venue, as well as having another five days afterwards at home.

Capacity will be set at 33 per cent for the first round, from April 17 to 21. There will be ‘1m+’ social distancing observed between different ticket groups/bookings, while face coverings will have to be worn inside, including when sat down in the theatre.

The number of spectators will be increased to 50 per cent for the second-round matches from April 22, increasing to 75 per cent for both the quarter-finals and semi-finals.

The WST said social distancing “will not be expected under this capacity although some mitigation procedures will be required to reduce the risk of transmission including wearing face coverings in the venue”.

For the final on May 2 and 3, it is hoped the venue “will operate without any capacity restriction” at around 980 seats, with organisers accepting “it will not be possible to avoid different parties sitting alongside one another”.

Social distancing measures would also not be expected, although “mitigation procedures” such as wearing face coverings in the venue could be necessary.

WST Chairman Barry Hearn said: “We are so excited to be heading back to the Crucible and to welcome fans to our events for the first time since we were in Sheffield last year.

"We are proud to be part of the Event Research Programme which will help us all on the roadmap towards doing the things we love. There may never be a better chance to buy tickets for the Crucible.”

Ticket prices start at £39.60 and can be purchased at www.cruciblesnooker.com.