Players Championship Snooker 2026: Schedule, Results, and How to Watch
The Players Championship, one of snooker’s most prestigious ranking events, is set to grab place in Telford, England, from February 17th to February 22nd, 2026. The tournament features the top 16 players from the one-year rankings, battling for the coveted title and a significant boost to their ranking points.
Key Players and Recent History
Judd Trump enters the tournament as the world number one, seeking to avenge his heartbreaking defeat in the 2025 final. Last year, Kyren Wilson defeated Trump 10-9 in a thrilling final to claim his first Players Championship title. Wilson, yet, will not be defending his title this year after dropping to 22nd in the one-year standings, as reported by The Sun.
Other notable players competing include Mark Selby, the reigning UK champion, and Zhao Xintong, who secured his place in Telford after winning the World Grand Prix.
Ronnie O’Sullivan will not be competing, having failed to confirm his participation by the deadline, making way for John Higgins.
Schedule of Play
Here’s the schedule for the Players Championship 2026:
Tuesday, February 17
- From 1pm GMT: Neil Robertson vs John Higgins
- From 1pm GMT: Wu Yize vs Mark Allen
- From 7pm GMT: Mark Selby vs Jack Lisowski
- From 7pm GMT: Chris Wakelin vs Xiao Guodong
Wednesday, February 18
- From 1pm GMT: Judd Trump vs Zhou Yuelong
- From 1pm GMT: Shaun Murphy vs Zhang Anda
- From 7pm GMT: Mark Williams vs Barry Hawkins
- From 7pm GMT: Zhao Xintong vs Elliott Slessor
Thursday, February 19 – Quarter-finals
- 1pm GMT: Match TBC
- 7pm GMT: Match TBC
Friday, February 20 – Quarter-finals
- 1pm GMT: Match TBC
- 7pm GMT: Match TBC
Saturday, February 21 – Semi-finals
- 1pm GMT: Match TBC
- 7pm GMT: Match TBC
Sunday, February 22 – Final
How to Watch
For the first time, the tournament will be broadcast FREE on Channel 5. It will likewise be streamed live on the 5 app/website.
Looking Ahead
Following the Players Championship, players will set their sights on the Tour Championship in Manchester (starting March 31st) and the World Championship in Sheffield (beginning April 19th), where Kyren Wilson will attempt to defend his world title.