2021 Masters: WST reveals plans for 1,000 fans per session at Alexandra Palace in London

Updated 27/11/2020 at 18:02 GMT

“We will do everything in our powers to make this a reality”, said WST chairman Barry Hearn as snooker gears up to welcome back spectators. The 2021 Masters runs from January 10-17, with Stuart Bingham set to defend his title against the likes of Judd Trump, Ronnie O’Sullivan and Mark Selby.

Stuart Bingham poses for a photo with the Paul Hunter Trophy after victory in the Final of the Dafabet Masters between Stuart Bingham and Ali Carter at Alexandra Palace on January 19, 2020 in London, England

Image credit: Getty Images

The Masters is planning to welcome supporters to London's Alexandra Palace in January after the UK government confirmed reduced crowds could return to sport in England.

Organisers WST hope that up to 1,000 fans will be allowed into each session for the tournament, which runs from January 10-17.

However, the ongoing UK Championship, Scottish Open and World Grand Prix will all take place behind closed doors.

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“We are absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to welcome our fabulous fans back to live snooker events. We are reliant on government advice but we will do everything in our powers to make this a reality,” said WST chairman Barry Hearn.

“In August at the World Championship we were extremely proud to be the first post-lockdown UK indoor sporting event to host fans.

“Since then our events have been behind closed doors and we have missed the amazing atmosphere which only our dedicated fans can generate. It is wonderful news for the players that they will soon be able to feel the buzz around them when they walk into an arena.”

Stuart Bingham will defend his title against the rest of the world’s top 16 players. The UK Championship is the final chance for players to qualify.