Masters snooker to be moved to Milton Keynes

After referring to Arena MK as the 'safest place on the planet' last year, Barry Hearn has confirmed the Masters snooker event will be held in Milton Keynes as of this Sunday.

The competition has been held at Alexandra Palace since 2011, but after several successful tournaments held at MK1 in 2020, the decision to move the Masters to the 'bubble' environment of the arena was deemed safest for the players.

"Our highest priority is always health and safety, and that is the basis of this decision," said World Snooker boss Barry Hearn.

"We staged several events in a strict bubble environment in Milton Keynes last summer and we were delighted that these were run successfully.

"I trust the 16 players to accept this decision, follow the rules carefully and enjoy one of our greatest tournaments."

Players, officials and staff will be regularly tested and must follow strict isolation and social distancing regulations.

The competition will be shown on BBC television.