Sheffield City Council and World Snooker Limited have signed an agreement keeping the World Snooker Championship at the Crucible Theatre until at least 2045, with an option to extend to 2050. The deal gives long-term certainty to an event closely associated with Sheffield and is intended to support the city’s visitor economy, local businesses and jobs.

The championship has been held at the Crucible since 1977, and its 50th Sheffield anniversary will take place next year. It currently contributes about £6.5 million a year to Sheffield and the wider region; if extended to 2050, the agreement is expected to generate around £208 million in economic impact.