Kyren Wilson wins Northern Ireland Open snooker title

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 13:37 · Archive

Kyren Wilson defeated Jak Jones to win the Northern Ireland Open snooker title at Belfast's Waterfront Hall.

Kyren Wilson won the Northern Ireland Open snooker title for a second time at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast on Sunday, defeating Jak Jones. The victory has strengthened Belfast's position as a potential host for the World Snooker Championship in 2029.

The Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, snooker's traditional home, is scheduled for an extensive renovation and expansion following the 2028 championship, with work expected to take up to 18 months. This redevelopment will force the sport's showpiece event to relocate temporarily, despite an agreement to keep the tournament in Sheffield until 2045.

During the Northern Ireland Open, players and World Snooker Tour officials gave the Waterfront Hall and Belfast rave reviews. The venue's compact auditorium places spectators close to the tables, creating an atmosphere potentially comparable to the Crucible. Its backstage facilities, fan experience and hospitality have also been praised. Players including Ronnie O'Sullivan, Jack Lisowski, Aaron Hill and Jordan Brown have backed Belfast as a possible championship host.

However, Belfast faces competition from other established venues, including Alexandra Palace in London, the Barbican in York, Manchester Central and Llandudno in Wales. O'Sullivan has also expressed support for Llandudno, while three-time Crucible champion Mark Williams has backed Sheffield Arena, arguing that keeping the tournament in Sheffield preserves the event's 'spiritual home'.

How it is being reported

• Belfast leading contender to host World Snooker Championship during Crucible Theatre redevelopmentKyren Wilson claimed the Alex Higgins trophy for a second time on Sunday night, with players, spectators and World Snooker Tour officials giving the venue and city rave reviewsBelfast Live · 26 Oct, 13:15
• Kyren Wilson defeats Jak Jones to win Northern Ireland Open snooker title in BelfastKyren Wilson wins the 2026 Northern Ireland Open snooker title at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast.News Letter · 26 Oct, 11:47

In this story: Kyren Wilson · Jak Jones · Belfast · Waterfront Hall · Sheffield · Crucible Theatre · Ronnie O'Sullivan · World Snooker Tour

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