Crucible re-opens doors to snooker fans for World Championship final

An initial series of pilot events – at the Crucible Theatre, some county cricket games and horse racing at Goodwood – were paused a fortnight ago by Prime Minister Boris Johnson amid fears over the coronavirus infection rate.

But the government has now sanctioned the return of spectators at several new pilot events in the hope fans can attend sporting venues from October 1.

The World Championship final – staged on Saturday and Sunday – will be the first pilot event. Snooker fans attended the opening day of the 17-day tournament, on Friday July 31 – with a reduced crowd of 300 supporters – before the government U-turn.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “The nation’s hard work to keep the virus under control means we can now make further careful progress on recovery with allowing audiences back for indoor performances, fans back at sports events and the reopening of more Covid-19 secure leisure businesses.

“We must all continue to stay alert but today’s welcome news means these organisations can finally get going safely, and we can enjoy more of the things we love as a nation.

“I have no doubt that they will work incredibly hard to keep their fans, patrons, and customers safe.”

The race to reach the final will conclude on Friday, when Mark Selby resumes leading Ronnie O’Sullivan 9-7, while Kyren Wilson leads 13-11 against Anthony McGill.

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