The 32-man tournament, which marks the end of the European and Asian Tour series, was due to take place in the capital Bangkok from March 25 until 29.

But a World Snooker spokesman said it has been advised "not to stage the event in Thailand".

Last month, the Thai Government imposed a 60-day state of emergency in Bangkok, and the surrounding provinces, to help it deal with unrest sparked by anti-government protesters.

Negotiations are taking place with alternative venues in the UK and mainland Europe.

The spokesman said a new location for the £300,000 ($493,000/€361,000) event will be "announced as soon as possible".

Protests in Bangkok have forced the relocation of the tournament ©AFP/Getty Images



The tournament will feature 24 players qualified from the European Tour Order of Merit, plus eight players from the Asian Tour Order of Merit.

Players including five-times world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan and four-times world champion John Higgins are due to take part in the tournament.

The winner will collect a cheque for £100,000 ($164,000/€120,000).

The Grand Finals were staged in Ireland last season, with China's Ding Junhui taking the top prize by beating Australian Neil Robertson 4-3.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
April 2013: Snooker launches bid to get into Olympics