Ken Doherty Urges Snooker Chiefs to Preserve Crucible Legacy for World Championship

Ken Doherty, the 1997 World Snooker Champion, has made a passionate plea to snooker chiefs to reconsider moving the World Championship away from its iconic home at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield. With the venue’s current deal set to expire in 2027, Doherty has urged officials to prioritize the history and tradition of the tournament over financial gains.

In a recent interview with the BBC, Doherty challenged former World Snooker Tour chairman Barry Hearn’s assertion that finance would be the sole determining factor in the Championship’s future location. The Irishman emphasized the sentimental value of the Crucible, highlighting the countless memorable matches and moments that have taken place there over the years.

Doherty’s sentiments were echoed by world number one Ronnie O’Sullivan, who suggested exploring lucrative opportunities to host the tournament abroad. However, Doherty remains steadfast in his belief that the Crucible’s unique atmosphere and heritage cannot be replicated elsewhere.

While acknowledging the need for modernization at the venue, Doherty emphasized that selling the World Championship to the highest bidder would undermine its sacred status in the world of snooker. He praised Hearn for his contributions to the sport but implored him to preserve the sanctity of the Crucible and not prioritize financial gains over tradition.

As the debate over the future location of the World Championship continues to unfold, Doherty’s impassioned plea serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring the sport’s history and heritage. The Crucible Theatre holds a special place in the hearts of snooker fans worldwide, and Doherty’s words carry weight as the decision-makers weigh their options for the tournament’s future.