What is the German Masters?
The Snooker German Masters 2026 Berlin is a ranking tournament of the World Snooker Tour – and in 2026, it will once again be the major snooker highlight on mainland Europe. It is traditionally played at the Tempodrom in Kreuzberg, an arena whose steep stands and tent roof provide extra goosebumps. For many professionals, Berlin is one of the most atmospheric stops of the season. The German Masters runs from January 26 to February 1.
Read all about this unique event:
When and where exactly will the tournament take place?
The balls will roll for a week at Tempodrom, Möckernstraße 10, right in the heart of Berlin. Qualification takes place beforehand in England – according to the tour calendar, the qualification matches are scheduled for early January, only then will the main field in Berlin be determined. For fans, this means: seven days of pure snooker in the large arena – from the early rounds to the final on Sunday evening.
How does the tournament work?
The German Masters is a world ranking event with the classic knockout mode. After the qualification rounds in Sheffield, the best players enter the main draw and play session after session in Berlin for points, prize money, and prestige. The Tempodrom hosts several tables simultaneously, before moving to the “TV table” from the quarter-finals or semi-finals onwards, and the atmosphere becomes even more intense. Compared to many sports, snooker thrives on calm, precision, and mental strength – every shot counts, every mistake can cost the frame.
Who is the defending champion – and who can be expected?
Kyren Wilson arrives as the reigning champion; he won the 2025 final in Berlin against Barry Hawkins. The field of participants is determined by qualification and ranking positions – so whoever is “seeded” or fights their way through will be on the Tempodrom stage. In the past, numerous top stars have graced Berlin, from Ronnie O’Sullivan and Judd Trump to Mark Selby, Luca Brecel, John Higgins, Mark Williams, or Ding Junhui; however, the final list of participants will only be confirmed after the qualification days.
Why is the event a Berlin highlight?
Firstly, because of the setting: The Tempodrom is close to the action, the view is excellent, and the silence before the shot – followed by the collective intake of breath from the hall – creates a unique tension. Secondly, because the German Masters has for years been considered the only world ranking tournament on mainland Europe, attracting fans from all over Europe. Anyone who has only known snooker from TV will understand here why this sport is so captivating live.
How do I get tickets – and what do they cost?
Tickets are officially available via WST and the Tempodrom. The price range – depending on the session and category – is approximately between €43.11 and €167.30. In addition to single sessions, multi-day tickets are also available; if you want a lot of snooker for your money, check out the tournament or preliminary round passes. Booking early is recommended, as the evenings from the quarter-finals onwards are traditionally in high demand.
How popular is snooker – and who are the faces of the sport?
Snooker has been experiencing a boom in popularity for years – also in Germany. The combination of fine mechanical precision, psychology, and dramaturgy turns the matches into small thrillers where millimeters decide. Internationally, charismatic stars shape the image: crowd-puller Ronnie O’Sullivan embodies genius and instinct like no other; Judd Trump combines speed and creativity; strategists like Mark Selby or John Higgins show how much tactics and endurance count; Luca Brecel brought fresh momentum to the top with his World Championship title. Berlin benefits from the fact that many of these names regularly appear here – making the German Masters one of the best opportunities to experience world-class talent up close. (General classification; specific list of participants will follow after qualification.)
How do I plan my visit?
The day and evening sessions are clearly scheduled; if you want to see multiple matches, ideally combine an afternoon session with an evening session. The Tempodrom is centrally located, easily accessible by S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and buses, and there are plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby for breaks. It’s also practical that the venue logistics are designed for snooker: quick entry routes, quiet foyers, clear signage – so you’re in your seat on time when the first “Silence, please” echoes through the arena.
Accommodation
If you’re still looking for charming accommodation options, then we at little BIG hotels have just the right thing for you. Of our six hotels in Berlin, three are a good distance from the Tempodrom. The elegant boutique hotel the YARD and the Fjord Hotel, located very close to Potsdamer Platz, are just 5 minutes away by Uber. You also benefit from excellent transport links from Lindemann´s in Berlin Schöneberg. In just 9 minutes, a taxi or Uber will take you to the Tempodrom, and by S-Bahn, it only takes 14 minutes. All hotels offer comfortable rooms and modern furnishings. And we also offer you a discounted stay at these three hotels. With the discount code LBH_Frame, you save 5% on stays from 2026-01-25 to 2025-02-02. By the way, group bookings are possible with us for 5 rooms or more.
Conclusion
The Snooker German Masters 2026 is the perfect opportunity to experience world-class snooker live – concentrated, quiet, nerve-wracking. The dates are set, the venue is legendary, and tickets are already listed. If you’re in Berlin at the beginning of 2026, mark the week on your calendar, secure seats for your favorite sessions, and experience why snooker is more than just balls and chalk: It’s slow-motion tension – and truly grand at the Tempodrom.