Snooker’s top stars will be back at Cheltenham Racecourse next February for the Coral World Grand Prix, which was staged for the first time earlier this year.

The prestigious tournament, which brings together 32 of the world’s best players, will run from Monday 3rd to Sunday 9th February in 2020.

The 2019 Coral World Grand Prix was the first ever professional snooker event staged in Cheltenham.

Judd Trump won the title, beating Ali Carter in the final. It was a star-packed field with the likes of Ronnie O’Sullivan, John Higgins, Mark Selby, Neil Robertson, Mark Williams and Churchdown’s Jack Lisowksi also in the field.

The tournament features the best 32 players on the season’s money list. It is the first event in the Coral Series, with the best 16 going on to the Coral Players Championship, and then the top eight contest the Coral Tour Championship. All three events are televised live by ITV4.

World Snooker chairman Barry Hearn said: “We are delighted to be heading back to the Centaur Arena at Cheltenham Racecourse for this huge tournament. Last year we found it to be a fantastic venue and the feedback was very strong from both our players and partners. It is a top-class facility in a superb location.

“We were also thrilled by the support of the local fans last year with great crowds. I expect to see even more fans flocking to the venue next time because the longevity of the event in Cheltenham depends on it.

“With all of the best players in the world in the field, seeing them live is an opportunity not to be missed for anyone in the region who loves sport.

“The fabulous thing about this event is that it rewards the players in form. All 128 players on the pro tour start the season with an equal chance of earning enough money to secure a place in the World Grand Prix and the other Coral series events.

“That means the standard of snooker is sure to be top class, as we saw last year in Cheltenham, particularly with the performance of Judd Trump, who then went on to win the World Championship. The race to qualify is on!

“We can’t wait to get back to Cheltenham, and fans should listen closely for news of the box opening and get tickets fast because many sessions will sell out quickly.”

Lee Moulson, regional head of sales at Cheltenham Racecourse, said: “It was fantastic to stage the Coral World Grand Prix for the first time this year and we are thrilled to announce that it is returning in 2020.

“We are delighted to be working with World Snooker once again and look forward to welcoming top names in the sport, the organisers and, most importantly, the fans back to The Centaur.

“This year’s competition had everyone gripped and we cannot wait to see what happens when the players return.

“Hosting events such as this demonstrates what a versatile space Cheltenham Racecourse is and how it can adapt to cater for different demands in the world of business, exhibitions and sport.”

Details of how to buy tickets will be announced soon.