Barry Hearn has issued a firm warning: unless Sheffield’s iconic Crucible Theatre undergoes a significant revamp or is replaced, the World Snooker Championship will leave the venue after its contract ends in 2027.

The legendary theatre, which has hosted snooker’s showpiece event since 1977, is “no longer fit for purpose,” according to Hearn, who remains a key figure in snooker through his role as president of Matchroom Sport.

“We love the Crucible. We love Sheffield. But the Crucible and Sheffield have got to love us back,” Hearn told BBC 5 Live Breakfast.

Crucible’s Future in Doubt Amid Call for Modernization

Despite the sport’s deep history with the Crucible, Hearn insists the time has come for change. He says snooker deserves modern facilities, increased financial backing, and a venue that can meet growing demands — especially as prize money and global interest rise.

“The facilities are outdated. The financials matter. We want to stay in Sheffield, but not at any cost,” Hearn said, ahead of an upcoming meeting with Sheffield City Council.

His comments reflect long-standing concerns from within the sport about capacity and modernization. The Crucible holds just 980 spectators, while other global sports, including darts, now fill multi-thousand-seat arenas and offer larger prize pools.

“Next year’s PDC World Darts Champion will earn £1 million. The 2025 World Snooker Champion will receive £500,000. That’s the gap,” Hearn explained.

Eddie Hearn: “We’re Leaving Money on the Table”

Eddie Hearn, who succeeded his father as chairman of Matchroom and oversees its boxing division, has taken a more hardline stance.

“I’d have moved the tournament five years ago,” he said, pointing out that snooker is “leaving a huge amount of money on the table” by staying at the Crucible.

Eddie believes the event could draw up to 4,000 fans per session at a larger venue, and says the future of snooker lies in modern, global staging — not clinging to tradition.

Could the World Championship Move Overseas?

Speculation has grown around potential new hosts for the tournament. Bids from China, Saudi Arabia, and alternative UK cities have reportedly been discussed, raising the possibility of the championship leaving Sheffield after 50 years.

Despite the nostalgia tied to the Crucible, Hearn emphasized that loyalty alone isn’t enough to justify staying.

“At some point, you have to say: we can provide life-changing opportunities for players,” Eddie said. “And players want more money — that’s true in every sport.”

No Final Decision During Ongoing Championship

Officials have confirmed no announcement will be made during this year’s World Snooker Championship. Still, the pressure is mounting on Sheffield and the UK government to invest if the tournament is to remain in its spiritual home beyond 2027.