The Crucible Theatre in Sheffield has secured its position as the home of the World Snooker Championship through a landmark agreement extending until 2045, with the possibility of continuing until 2050.
The historic venue, which has staged snooker's premier event since 1977, will undergo a £45m transformation as part of the deal struck between World Snooker Tour and Sheffield City Council.
Improvements will include an additional 500 seats, expanding the current 980-seat capacity, alongside enhanced facilities for spectators.
The announcement ends months of speculation about the championship's future, with British fans having been eager for the tournament to remain at its traditional venue.
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The deal was reached despite considerable interest from both China and Saudi Arabia in hosting snooker's flagship competition.
Seven-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan had publicly advocated for moving the event abroad, describing the current arrangement as a "circus" that required far more space to accommodate properly.
"I think definitely it's a wise decision to take it away from Sheffield," O'Sullivan previously told The Sun.
The Crucible Theatre in Sheffield has secured its position as the home of the World Snooker Championship through a landmark agreement extending until 2045, with the possibility of continuing until 2050
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"I think Saudi Arabia would be great. They've got the resources and would do it great."
The sport's biggest star suggested alternative venues in Shanghai, Shenzhen or Guangzhou would offer superior facilities, including courtesy cars, quality hotels and significantly higher prize money.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed Tuesday's confirmation, having visited the Crucible in February to encourage support for the venue's redevelopment.
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The Prime Minister noted Sheffield's distinction as home to the world's oldest football club during his earlier trip to the city.
"I'm delighted with today's confirmation that the theatre and the city will stay host to the famous World Snooker Championships for many years to come," he added.
Barry Hearn, the Matchroom boss, expressed his delight at the outcome following extensive negotiations with local authorities.
Ronnie O'Sullivan previously criticised the Crucible and suggested a venue change was needed
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"For over 50 years I have been promoting sport all over the world but no venue on this planet means more to me than the Crucible," Hearn said.
"I am so happy that after a long period of meetings and discussions we have finally agreed a deal to stage the World Championship at its historic home the Crucible."
The championship will temporarily relocate from 2028 whilst the substantial renovation works are completed.
This year's tournament gets underway on 18 April and runs through to 4 May, with the upgraded venue set to welcome players and fans in the years ahead.