Snooker fans warned to arrive at Crucible early as protest set to cause disruptions

Lewis Henderson
Sat, 25 Apr 2026 12:34:56 +0000

Spectators travelling to the World Snooker Championship at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre this weekend have been warned to expect potential travel disruption in the city centre.

South Yorkshire Police have told fans to arrive well ahead of schedule or consider leaving their vehicles at home in favour of public transport.

The warning comes amid preparations for a possible fuel protest by farmers, who are reportedly angered by rising petrol costs linked to the conflict in Iran and the Middle East.

Specific details regarding any planned march or potential road blockades have not been widely circulated by organisers.

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The disruption is anticipated to be most severe this afternoon, which coincides directly with the two sessions at the tournament.

Police resources will be further stretched on Saturday, with Sheffield United hosting Preston North End at Bramall Lane for a 3pm kick-off in the Blades' final home fixture of the Championship campaign.

Authorities have acknowledged the protest could affect queuing outside the venue and potentially cause some ticket holders to miss the start of play.

In a statement, South Yorkshire Police said: "We are aware of a potential planned protest in Sheffield city centre on Saturday, April 25, and are urging anyone travelling to the city to allow extra time and plan ahead.

"On Friday and Saturday, we know many visitors will be travelling to the city for events and activities including the Snooker World Championships held at the Crucible, and the Sheffield United v Preston match at Bramall Lane.

"All events are still due to go ahead as planned. But we're urging those attending to allow extra time for travel and potential public transport disruptions, and to check for updates.

"All travel advice and updated timetables can be found on the Travel South Yorkshire and Supertram website.

"Our officers will be in the city, please speak to them if you require assistance or have any concerns."

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A World Snooker Tour spokesman said: "We are aware that there could be disruption to traffic around the centre of Sheffield on Saturday, particularly in the early afternoon from 12pm to 2pm.

"We advise any fans coming to the Crucible for the afternoon session to leave plenty of time for their journey or use public transport.

"Fans arriving early can enjoy the atmosphere and Fanzone in Tudor Square outside the Crucible."

Sessions at the Crucible hold up to 980 people, with Ronnie O'Sullivan in action against John Higgins later this evening.

Zhao Xintong is in action against Ding Junhui at 2:30pm, with the pair tied after their first session 4-4.

Judd Trump goes up against Hossein Vafaei in the other afternoon slot before O'Sullivan and Higgins kick off the evening games.

Barry Hawkins and Mark Williams are also in action in what is set to be an entertaining evening at the Crucible.