Matchroom Sport president Barry Hearn said last April that the tournament would have to move from its long-time home after 2027 if the venue was not revamped or replaced.Hearn said the venue was “no longer fit for purpose” but added the World Snooker Tour ideally “want to stay” at the Sheffield theatre.China and Saudi Arabia were suggested as possible alternatives for hosting the tournament.”It is really important, as we are talking about history, do you chase the big bucks somewhere else or stay where you are?” Hearn told BBC Sport.”This deal works for everyone. This is the deal that everyone ends up with bread in their mouth.”I couldn’t be happier to secure the future here until 2045.”Last May, Zhao Xintong made history to became the first player from China to win the World Championship.Some players, including Ronnie O’Sullivan and Iran’s Hossein Vafaei, have criticised the venue for being too small but 2005 champion Shaun Murphy called it “holy ground” for competitors.Up until the semi-finals, the World Snooker Championship is played with a two-table set-up, meaning space is tight and the fans are close to the players.Other significant improvements such as enhanced spectator facilities will be included in the refurbishment.
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Revamped Crucible to host World Championship until 2045
