Every November, the snooker world turns its attention to one of the most exclusive events on the calendar, the Champion of Champions. The 2025 edition promises high drama as the sport’s biggest names gather in Leicester’s Mattioli Arena, all vying for the prestigious title and a share of the £440,000 prize fund.
Mark Williams enters as the defending champion after defeating Xiao Guodong last year, while stars like Judd Trump, Jack Lisowski, and Neil Robertson prepare for another thrilling week of top-tier competition.
This year’s tournament will not only showcase elite snooker but also mark the first time the event is hosted at the Mattioli Arena, adding fresh excitement for players and fans alike.
With live coverage on ITV4 and global streaming options, the 2025 Champion of Champions Snooker Schedule ensures fans everywhere can enjoy every cue strike, frame, and moment of magic.
How Did the Champion of Champions 2025 Line-Up Take Shape?
The Champion of Champions is an invitational event that brings together winners from the previous snooker season. Only players who have lifted a significant title earn a spot in this elite line-up, making it one of the hardest tournaments to qualify for. The 2025 field is packed with talent, featuring familiar faces and rising stars who have all proven their class.
Judd Trump secured his place through consistent performances, while Mark Williams qualified automatically as the reigning champion.
Other key entrants include Masters Champion Shaun Murphy, World Champion Zhao Xintong, and the ever-reliable Neil Robertson. Jack Lisowski earned his spot after capturing his first ranking title at the Northern Ireland Open, marking a career milestone that now sees him competing among snooker’s best.
Ronnie O’Sullivan’s absence is notable, as the seven-time world champion did not qualify due to a lack of tournament victories in 2024. This opens the door for new contenders to stamp their mark on the event and potentially challenge Williams’ reign in Leicester.
A Mix of Experience and Fresh Faces
The 2025 roster highlights snooker’s international reach. Players from England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Australia, and China feature prominently. Bai Yulu, the Women’s World Champion from China, makes her second appearance, symbolising the sport’s growing diversity and global appeal.
Who Is Defending the Champion of Champions Title This Year?
Mark Williams returns to Leicester as the man to beat. The Welsh legend lifted the trophy last year after an impressive 10-6 victory over Xiao Guodong in the final. His combination of calmness, precision, and tactical awareness makes him a formidable opponent even against the younger generation.
Mark Williams’ 2024 Triumph
Williams’ path to the 2024 title was a masterclass in composure. Facing top-tier opponents throughout, he showcased his trademark style of controlled breaks and clever safety play. The final against Xiao Guodong was a reminder of why he remains one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Aiming for Back-to-Back Titles
Defending the Champion of Champions crown is a rare feat. Williams will be under pressure to repeat last year’s success, but his recent form suggests he remains up for the challenge. Playing at the Mattioli Arena could also provide inspiration, as fans in Leicester rally behind one of the sport’s most beloved figures.
When and Where Is the Champion of Champions Snooker Schedule 2025 Taking Place?
The 2025 Sportsbet.io Champion of Champions runs from Monday, 10 November to Sunday, 16 November, at the Mattioli Arena in Leicester. This new venue adds to the event’s prestige and offers fans a modern setting to experience the best of world-class snooker.
Session Timings
- Afternoon Sessions: Begin at 13:00 (UK time)
- Evening Sessions: Start at 19:00 (UK time)
The tournament opens with Group Two on Monday and concludes with the grand final on Sunday evening.
Venue Highlights
The Mattioli Arena, known for its state-of-the-art facilities, offers spectators an intimate view of the action. For fans, it is the perfect chance to witness legends like Judd Trump and Mark Selby competing live in one of snooker’s most exciting weeks.
What Does the Full Champion of Champions Snooker Schedule 2025 Look Like?
Below is the official schedule for the 2025 edition, featuring the daily fixtures across group stages and beyond.
2025 Champion of Champions Snooker Schedule
| Date | Session Time (UK) | Fixtures |
| Monday, 10 Nov | 13:00 | Shaun Murphy vs Lei Peifan, Judd Trump vs Bai Yulu |
| Monday, 10 Nov | 19:00 | Judd Trump vs Lei Peifan (Group Final) |
| Tuesday, 11 Nov | 13:00 | Kyren Wilson vs Jack Lisowski, Mark Allen vs Zhao Xintong |
| Tuesday, 11 Nov | 19:00 | Group Three Final |
| Wednesday, 12 Nov | 13:00 | Mark Williams vs Alfie Burden, Mark Selby vs Stephen Maguire |
| Wednesday, 12 Nov | 19:00 | Group One Final |
| Thursday, 13 Nov | 13:00 | Neil Robertson vs Tom Ford, John Higgins vs Xiao Guodong |
| Thursday, 13 Nov | 19:00 | Group Four Final |
| Friday, 14 Nov | Evening | Semi-Final 1 |
| Saturday, 15 Nov | Evening | Semi-Final 2 |
| Sunday, 16 Nov | 19:00 | Final (Best of 19 Frames) |
This well-balanced schedule ensures action-packed afternoons and evenings, culminating in the championship match that will crown the 2025 Champion of Champions.
Which Players Are in Each Group for the Champion of Champions 2025?
The competition begins with four groups, each featuring four elite players. Every match in the group stage is a best-of-seven contest, with group finals extending to a best-of-11 format.
Group Line-Ups
Group One: Mark Williams, Mark Selby, Stephen Maguire, Alfie Burden
Group Two: Judd Trump, Shaun Murphy, Lei Peifan, Bai Yulu
Group Three: Kyren Wilson, Mark Allen, Zhao Xintong, Jack Lisowski
Group Four: Neil Robertson, John Higgins, Xiao Guodong, Tom Ford
Group Dynamics
Each group showcases a mix of former world champions, emerging stars, and returning contenders. Group One stands out as particularly competitive, with three former world champions in the mix.
Group Three promises fast-paced action, while Group Four features two former winners, Robertson and Higgins, battling to reclaim glory.
What Is the Format of the Champion of Champions Snooker Tournament?
The format remains true to the event’s tradition, offering an exciting blend of short and extended matches designed to test consistency and nerve.
Tournament Structure
- Group Matches: Best of 7 frames
- Group Finals: Best of 11 frames
- Semi-Finals: Best of 11 frames
- Final: Best of 19 frames
How It Works?
Two opening matches take place in each group. The winners then meet in a group final on the same day to determine who advances to the semi-finals. The semi-finals are held over Friday and Saturday evenings, followed by the best-of-19 final on Sunday.
This structure ensures every match matters, keeping fans engaged from the first cue to the final frame.
How Much Prize Money Is on Offer at the Champion of Champions 2025?
The 2025 edition carries a total prize fund of £440,000, making it one of the most lucrative invitational events in snooker.
Champion of Champions 2025 Prize Money
| Stage | Prize (£) |
| Winner | 150,000 |
| Runner-up | 60,000 |
| Semi-finalists | 30,000 |
| Group runners-up | 17,500 |
| Group semi-finalists | 12,500 |
Beyond the financial rewards, the event offers prestige and ranking momentum ahead of the UK Championship later in the season.
How Can Fans Watch or Stream the Champion of Champions 2025 Live?
Fans in the UK can enjoy full coverage of the Champion of Champions 2025 on ITV4. Matches will also be available via ITVX, allowing viewers to stream the action live or on-demand.
International Broadcast Partners
For global fans, the event will be broadcast through major networks, including Fox Sports in Australia, Sky Network in New Zealand, Viaplay in Scandinavia, and Rigour in China. Discovery+ will also carry live streams as part of the wider snooker season coverage.
This global accessibility ensures that every fan, regardless of location, can follow their favourite stars.
What Are the Standout Fixtures and Key Rivalries to Watch?
The 2025 line-up guarantees thrilling encounters from the very start. Several match-ups have already captured fan attention due to player histories and recent form.
Matches to Watch
- Judd Trump vs Shaun Murphy promises a battle of attacking flair versus tactical precision.
- Mark Williams vs Mark Selby is a Leicester homecoming duel featuring two masters of matchplay.
- Neil Robertson vs John Higgins could easily be a final, given their class and experience.
Emerging Storylines
Fans will also keep an eye on Bai Yulu’s progress as she continues to inspire women’s snooker. Meanwhile, Jack Lisowski’s momentum following his Northern Ireland Open success adds intrigue to Group Three.
Why Is the Champion of Champions 2025 a Must-Watch Event for Snooker Fans?
The Champion of Champions stands apart because it is not about ranking points but pure prestige. Every frame carries intensity, and each participant has already proven themselves by winning a major event.
Reasons to Watch
- Features the world’s top winners only
- Fast-paced group matches leading to high-stakes knockouts
- Held at a brand-new venue in Leicester
- Free-to-air coverage for UK fans
The event celebrates excellence, sportsmanship, and the enduring appeal of snooker’s finest talents.
Conclusion
The Champion of Champions Snooker Schedule 2025 promises a captivating week of top-class snooker, featuring elite names, intense rivalries, and world-class entertainment. From Judd Trump’s attacking brilliance to Mark Williams’ calm authority, Leicester will host an unforgettable showcase of the sport’s best.
With a format designed for excitement, global broadcast access, and the allure of a £150,000 winner’s prize, this event remains a highlight of the snooker season. Fans should prepare for seven days of drama, precision, and moments that define champions.
FAQs
What channel is showing the Champion of Champions 2025 in the UK?
ITV4 will broadcast the entire tournament live, with streaming available on ITVX.
Where is the Champion of Champions 2025 being played?
The event is hosted at the Mattioli Arena in Leicester for the first time in its history.
How long does the Champion of Champions last?
The tournament runs from 10 to 16 November 2025, featuring daily afternoon and evening sessions.
Who won the previous edition of the Champion of Champions?
Mark Williams won the 2024 event, defeating Xiao Guodong 10-6 in the final.
What is the prize money for the winner?
The Champion of Champions 2025 winner receives £150,000.
How many players compete in the tournament?
Sixteen players qualify, divided into four groups of four, with group winners progressing to the semi-finals.
Can international fans watch the event live?
Yes. International coverage is available via networks like Fox Sports, Viaplay, and Discovery+, ensuring global access.
