Snooker Chaos in Hong Kong: Fans Ejected Before Midnight Sparks Global Backlash

The Snooker World Grand Prix was set to be the highlight of Hong Kong’s “Super March” festivities, marking the city’s ambitions to reassert itself as a premier international event destination. However, after an exciting first day, the narrative quickly shifted from the matches to an unexpected controversy—spectators being forced to leave before midnight. This abrupt removal of fans dampened the event’s atmosphere and sparked widespread criticism.

Broadcast globally on networks such as Eurosport, TNT Sports, and Discovery+, the tournament’s unexpected turn gained international attention. Major UK media outlets, including The Mirror, The Express, Metro, and The Sun, covered the incident, casting an unwelcome spotlight on Hong Kong’s event management. This was hardly the impression the city hoped to make as it strives to rebuild its reputation as a world-class hub for sports and entertainment.

Blame has been widely debated, but the responsibility cannot be placed solely on the Kai Tak Sports Park operator. Hong Kong’s Secretary for Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Rosanna Law Shuk-pui, acknowledged that both the event organiser and venue management were aware of the potential for late-running matches. She swiftly intervened, instructing them to allow fans to stay until the conclusion of the games for the remainder of the tournament.

Feng Huanhuan, CEO of F-Sports, the event’s organiser, claimed ignorance regarding the venue’s midnight curfew. Having managed large-scale snooker events in mainland China, where such restrictions do not exist, he stated that his team had not anticipated this issue. However, many have questioned whether this critical detail should have been clarified in the venue contract beforehand.

For international attendees who traveled to Hong Kong specifically for the event, the experience left a sour taste. Instead of cherishing memories of thrilling matches, they were left with frustration over their abrupt removal. Rather than returning home as ambassadors for Hong Kong’s hospitality, there is now a concern that their accounts will tarnish the city’s reputation for hosting major events.

This debacle underscores the necessity of meticulous planning and clear communication in event management. Hong Kong boasts a world-class venue in Kai Tak Sports Park, but such facilities must be matched by top-tier organisational capabilities. If the city hopes to maintain its place on the global stage for sporting and cultural events, investment in skilled event management professionals is essential. Moving forward, ensuring seamless and professional experiences will be key to preserving Hong Kong’s appeal as an international event hub.