Why the delay in Hong Kong hosting a major snooker tournament? A packed schedule, says governing body

World governing body says it is working with the local association to bring big names to the city but are struggling to find suitable dates

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Neil Robertson after winning the 2017 Hong Kong Masters final at Queen Elizabeth Stadium. Photo: David Wong

Published: 9:58am, 11 Jun 2018Updated: 10:24pm, 11 Jun 2018

Hong Kong could become a major stop on snooker’s international circuit within the next two years as the world governing body looks to expand its brand around the world with China fuelling the sport’s growth.

Jason Ferguson, chairman of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association, told the SCMP that the main obstacle for Hong Kong is finding time on the global calendar for a top ranking or women’s tournament.

He said the body is working with the Hong Kong Billiards Sports Control Council to bring world-class snooker to a city that boasts women’s world number one Ng On-yee and men’s pro Marco Fu Ka-chun.

“The calendar is absolutely packed now, we have more than 30 events a year and it’s a case of how best to fit Hong Kong in,” said Ferguson. “It might work as a part of a first or second stop on an Asian swing. I wouldn’t put a date on it, we are working on it now and in touch with the Hong Kong snooker association.

“Hopefully within the next year or two Hong Kong could be a major stop on the world tour,” he added.

“There is no other reason other than that and we need to find a right spot on the calendar and see how we can pull it together from an operation point of view.

“Hong Kong put on a great event last year, it was supported by everyone, including the government and we’d love to come back.”