Online casino operator MrQ has been revealed to be the title sponsor of the snooker UK Championship, confirmed by the World Snooker Tour (WST).
Now titled the ‘MrQ UK Championship’, the gambling operator will become the lead partner of the UK’s most prominent snooker championship by ensuring that the total prize fund for this year’s edition exceeds £1m.
Running from 25 November, to 3 December 2024, the UK Championship has showcased the best of British snooker, with previous winners such as Ronnie O’Sullivan, John Higgins and Mark Allen.
Peter Wright, WST Chief Commercial Officer, heralded the “like-minded” relationship between the governing body and MrQ as a key factor to the agreed deal.
He said: “It’s crucial that the World Snooker Tour works with like-minded and ambitious brands who have the same desire as we do to develop the sport and create the best possible fan experiences.
“That’s why we are delighted to align one of our most prestigious tournaments with MrQ, a UK based organisation that shares its name with part of our sport.”
The CCO also praised York’s venue, the Barbican Centre, for its atmosphere and history. He also expressed excitement to work with James Booth, MrQ’s Head of Acquisition, and the team to deliver a ‘fun and engaging partnership’.
Booth said: “We’re delighted to bring MrQ to the table of such a prestigious event and build a relationship with WST’s global snooker audience.
“There is a clear and obvious synergy between snooker and the MrQ brand, so we’re super excited to see the partnership come to life.”
In addition to landing the rights to sponsor the UK Championship, MrQ is also currently the official partner of Championship side Watford FC along with the PDC UK Darts Open.