Betfair gets snookered

Betfair, has signed a deal to sponsor the World Snooker’s new European Tour this season.

The European Tour is a series of six events over the next few months, capitalising on the sport’s burgeoning popularity across the continent. It will be known as the Betfair European Tour with each event broadcast on Eurosport.

The six events, which form part of the Players Tour Championship series, are:

- Paul Hunter Classic, Furth, Germany August 23-26
- Gydnia Open, Gdynia, Poland, October 5-7
- Belgian Open, Antwerp, Belgium, October 19-21
- Bulgarian Open, Sofia, Bulgaria, November 16-18
- Scottish Open, Ravenscraig, Scotland, December 14-16
- Munich Open, Munich, Germany, January 4-6

World Snooker Chairman Barry Hearn said: “We are delighted to bring in Betfair as the sponsor of the European Tour. Just like us, they are targeting emerging markets in many areas of Europe, and this tour will provide tremendous exposure for their brand.

“Each of these events will receive extensive television coverage from Eurosport and the viewing figures are phenomenal. We are extremely excited about the potential snooker has on the continent in the coming years. These events will attract the best professionals and amateurs, providing great opportunities for the players. And for the passionate fans in places like Bulgaria and Poland it’s a chance to see the world’s leading stars compete.”

Matt Robinson, International Director at Betfair, said: “We are delighted to add World Snooker’s new European Tour to our sponsorship portfolio. The tour visits some key European markets so it’s a great way to raise awareness for our brand. We’re excited to support a game which attracts fans both old and new.”