Stephen Hendry believes the World Snooker Championship should stay in Sheffield when it temporarily vacates the Crucible Theatre in 2029.
What happened?
Hendry, a seven-time world champion, expressed his opinion at this year's championships, citing the city's commitment to the sport and its fans.
Why it matters for Stephen Hendry
The Crucible has been the home of the World Snooker Championship since 1977, and Hendry thinks it would be cruel to take the tournament away from Sheffield, given the city's investment in the sport.
Judd Trump, the world No.1, disagrees with Hendry, suggesting that the Tempodrom in Germany would be a better venue for the 2029 championship.
What comes next?
The 2029 World Snooker Championship will need to be held elsewhere while the Crucible undergoes a £45million refurbishment, with 500 additional seats being installed.
Hendry serves as a BBC pundit and was quizzed on the venue for the 2029 Worlds, saying it should stay in Sheffield if possible.
The agreement between World Snooker and Sheffield City Council was signed in 2017 and was due to expire in 2027, but it has been extended until at least 2045, with the possibility of extending to 2050.
Trump thinks the German fans have been excellent for snooker and that the German Masters is an amazing tournament, making the Tempodrom a perfect venue for the World Championship.
The O2 Arena in London is Trump's alternative choice if the tournament remains in the UK.
The new Crucible deal is great news for snooker, according to Trump, as it provides a long-term commitment and stability for the sport.
On March 2026, any uncertainty about the tournament's future location was put to rest, with the Worlds set to remain at the Crucible until at least 2045.
Hendry's opinion on the venue is based on the city's love for snooker, with signs saying 'Sheffield loves snooker' all over the place.
The 2029 edition of the World Snooker Championship will be a significant event, with a new venue to be confirmed soon.
The World Snooker Championship has a rich history, and the 2029 edition will be no exception, with the best players in the world competing for the title.
The Crucible's refurbishment will include the installation of 500 additional seats, making it an even better venue for the tournament.
The World Snooker Championship is one of the most prestigious events in the sport, and the 2029 edition will be highly anticipated.
The debate over the venue for the 2029 World Snooker Championship is ongoing, with Hendry and Trump having different opinions on the matter.
The final decision on the venue will be made soon, and it will be interesting to see where the tournament will be held in 2029.