World Snooker chiefs hopeful of having fans at World Championships at Crucible Theatre

Barry Hearn remains hopeful some fans may be able to attend this year’s World Snooker Championship.
This year's Betfred World Snooker Championship has been rescheduled to July 31 at the Crucible (Picture: PA)This year's Betfred World Snooker Championship has been rescheduled to July 31 at the Crucible (Picture: PA)
This year's Betfred World Snooker Championship has been rescheduled to July 31 at the Crucible (Picture: PA)

The World Snooker Tour’s chairman said organisers would “explore every avenue” to get spectators into the Crucible for the event which starts on July 31.

Those with tickets for the showpiece have been given the option to register their interest in being in a reduced-capacity audience should government regulations change to allow spectators through the doors.

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A statement on WST’s website said it is in talks with the UK government regarding the prospect of safely allowing crowds in but if this proves impossible, the event will instead take place behind closed 
doors.

Robert Milkins celebrates with fans after defeating Neil Robertson during the Betfair World Championships at the Crucible (Picture: Martin Rickett/PA Wire)Robert Milkins celebrates with fans after defeating Neil Robertson during the Betfair World Championships at the Crucible (Picture: Martin Rickett/PA Wire)
Robert Milkins celebrates with fans after defeating Neil Robertson during the Betfair World Championships at the Crucible (Picture: Martin Rickett/PA Wire)

WST chairman Hearn said: “Detailed discussions with the relevant organisations are ongoing and we are determined to explore every avenue.

“We realise that to attend the Betfred World Championship is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many fans, and for everyone in the arena it is a magical occasion.

“The highest priority of course is the health and safety of fans and everyone connected with the event, so spectators will only be allowed if we are confident that this priority can be met. But we are working hard towards making this happen if possible.”

The qualifiers for the World Championship take place between from July 21-28 at the English Institute of Sport.

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