Spectator Ejected from World Snooker Championship Semi-Final After Shouting About Epstein Files

A spectator was ejected from the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield on May 2, 2026, after disrupting the World Snooker Championship semi-final between Wu Yize and Mark Allen. The disruption occurred as the players prepared for the 33rd frame, with the spectator shouting "never forget the Epstein Files" twice.

This phrase appeared to reference documentation related to Jeffrey Epstein, the late convicted sex offender and financier. " Other audience members had already asked the individual to be quiet. The spectator, who remains unidentified, was escorted from the venue.

Despite the interruption, Wu Yize maintained focus and won the match 17-16. Mark Allen had led 16-15 and missed a pot on the black ball, allowing Wu to tie and then win the deciding frame. This victory advanced Wu to the final on May 3, 2026.

The semi-final had already featured an extended frame on May 1, 2026, lasting 100 minutes and 21 seconds, the longest in World Championship history. The delay occurred due to the position of the black ball making eight reds unplayable, leading to prolonged safety play.

Referee Marcel Eckardt allowed each player three attempts to resolve the stalemate before Allen potted the black deliberately. " The World Snooker Championship is an annual event held at the Crucible Theatre, featuring top players in a knockout format over 17 days.