BBC agree to extend Triple Crown event coverage until 2027

The BBC will broadcast snooker’s Triple Crown events until at least 2027 after extending their agreement with WST.

The existing contract was due to expire at the conclusion of the 2023-24 season.

However, a deal has been agreed for the World Championship, Masters and UK Championship to be broadcast live on the BBC and its online streaming platform for an additional three years.

A peak audience of four million people tuned into last year’s Crucible final, when Mark Selby beat Shaun Murphy 18-15 to land his fourth World title.

The conclusion of the extension will coincide with the 100th anniversary of the World Championship, while it will also be 50 years since the first staging of snooker’s blue-riband event at the Crucible.

Steve Dawson, WST Chairman, said: “Extending this partnership demonstrates what a successful relationship we have built with the BBC over a period of more than 50 years.

“Our relationship allows us to tap into the huge reach that only the BBC can deliver while providing world class sporting drama to BBC audiences.

“Snooker belongs on the BBC and it’s important for our sport to be seen by a massive audience throughout the UK.

“Millions of people enjoy snooker’s biggest events on the BBC and the quality of their production is outstanding.

“BBC’s coverage is an integral part of the rich history which surrounds our Triple Crown tournaments.”