sportskeeda
Hazel Irvine, the BBC snooker presenter, has voiced her firm opposition to the possible move of the World Championship from its beloved venue at the Crucible.
The Scottish sports journalist stated that relocating from this legendary site would be similar to denying golfers the chance to participate in The Open at St Andrews.
6
6
6
6
Irvine shared her perspective with The Courier: “This discussion has been ongoing for years.
“Since I started covering snooker, the possibility of relocation has always been in the air.
“Winning at this venue connects you to the place, the city, and the overall experience.
“I am continuously stunned by how such a small theater can create limitless narratives of dynamic history in the sport.”
Three-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan has openly opposed the Crucible, suggesting that the World Snooker Championship should be moved to locations that are more financially viable.
O’Sullivan proposed alternatives such as Saudi Arabia and China.
He told SunSport in April: “The Crucible is not enjoyable for me. It’s tricky to get in and out.
“I genuinely think relocating from Sheffield would be a wise decision.
CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
“Keep hosting a tournament there. That’s acceptable. But not the world championship which spans 17 days.
“It’s a grand event and needs ample space to accommodate it.”
Snooker sensation, 14, ready for World Tour debut against world No23 and is ‘far superior’ to British Open champ trainer
He further remarked: “While I am aware the Crucible provides decent tea and occasionally lasagne, that’s about the extent of your expectations.
“One of the key issues with Sheffield is the lack of peacefulness; parking is a nightmare.”
Despite this, Irvine emphasized the views of four-time champion John Higgins who advocates for keeping the tournament at the Sheffield location.
She noted: “He feels there may come a time when it could change location.
6
6
“The timing of such a change remains uncertain.
“Nonetheless, he expressed compassion for competitors who may miss out on the opportunity to win at the Crucible, noting that there is a unique atmosphere—similar to winning The Open at St Andrews—that connects you to that venue, the city, and the experience.
“That is a feeling that cannot be bought.”
Although St Andrews, the birthplace of Irvine, does not host The Open every year, it is the venue for the championship every five years.
Still, Higgins admitted that he believes the World Championship moving from the Crucible is “inevitable.”
In his comments from April, he stated: “It’s bound to happen. In three years, the landscape of the snooker scene will have changed.
“I’m fortunate to have won it here. Leaving this venue will be sorrowful; it has been a significant part of my journey.
“If you asked other players who have yet to claim the trophy here, they would likely view it as a lifelong regret.
“While their financial circumstances may not reflect that for future winners, a look at history and the champions who came before them would reveal that they would cherish having won it here, as it is genuinely special.
“It’s the premier location for playing snooker.”
