For nearly five decades, Sheffield businesses have relied on the snooker event to boost profits and attract new customers.
There has been talks of the venue for the tournament changing yearly, whilst others have suggested it’s moved to Far-East Asia.
A move away from the 980 seater crucible would be leaving what many regard as the home of snooker, but with prize money having sat at £500,000 for the winner for the last few years, the players are dreaming of bigger.
Many have weighed in on the debate in the world of snooker, with players criticising the size of the venue and the quality of the conditions.
Barry Hearn, President of Matchroom Sport, said on Stephen Hendry’s Youtube Channel: “Don’t tell me you love me, and then leave me to pay the bill at dinner.
I’ve laid the gauntlet down to Sheffield City Council. You say it’s the best thing that’s ever happened to Sheffield. I believe you.
Build me a 2 and a half thousand seater stadium. You have 4 years.”
Those are the words from the man in charge, but how would a decision like this affect businesses in Sheffield?
Victoria Travers, who works at a Greene King pub said “I think the Championships are a good thing for the city of Sheffield. If it were to leave I hope it wouldn’t hurt local business.
I think it’s also a great thing for the north of England to have such a prestigious tournament.”
When told about Hearn’s proposal, Travers said, “I think that would be a great outcome personally. I don’t know all that much about snooker but it sounds like if that were to happen, everyone would win.”
Rob from GT news also said “it would be a great shame if it left. There is a big increase in demand when the snooker is on.”
Given the wider context of the business environment these establishments are operating in, this could be a huge blow to those businesses relying on additional revenue provided by increased footfall.
Sheffield City Council confirmed the Crucible contract extends until 2027, with hopes for renewal thereafter.