John Virgo one of snooker’s great men says Neal Foulds in his latest column

John Virgo one of snooker’s great men says Neal Foulds in his latest column

 

 

In his latest column, veteran snooker commentator and former player Neal Foulds paid heartfelt tribute to John Virgo, describing him as “one of snooker’s great men” — a title few would dispute. Virgo, who passed away on February 4, 2026 at the age of 79, left behind not just a legacy of sporting achievement, but a warmth and wit that made him beloved far beyond the green baize.

Born in Salford in 1946, Virgo turned professional in 1976 after a promising amateur career. Though his playing résumé includes just four professional titles — most notably the 1979 UK Championship, where he beat Terry Griffiths 14–13 in a dramatic final — his impact as a broadcaster far outshone his tournament victories. Reaching a career-high world ranking of No. 10 in the 1979–80 season, Virgo was never a household name like Steve Davis or Stephen Hendry, but his presence in the commentary box became as iconic as the cue ball itself.

For over three decades, Virgo was the voice of snooker on BBC Television. He joined Big Break in 1991 alongside Jim Davidson, turning the game show into a cultural touchstone that introduced countless viewers to the sport. His catchphrase “Where’s the cue ball going?” became part of British sporting folklore, encapsulating his blend of analytical insight and playful humor. Even as the sport evolved through the eras of Hendry, O’Sullivan, and modern stars like Mark Selby and Kyren Wilson, Virgo remained a constant, trusted presence — his final commentary coming at the 2026 Masters final just weeks before his death.

Neal Foulds, writing in his column published Thursday, February 12, 2026, reflected on Virgo’s generosity, kindness, and infectious laughter. “JV was incredibly generous, kind, and funny,” Foulds noted. “He was also a wonderful player and commentator. Thoughts with Rosie and all of his family. Thanks for all the great memories JV.”

Tributes flooded in from across the snooker world. Ronnie O’Sullivan, who considered Virgo a close friend, said: “Finished my match to get the news that JV has passed away. Love to Rosie, Brooke and Gary. Such a great mate who I loved spending time with, absolutely gutted.” Stephen Hendry recalled working alongside Virgo: “Nobody recreated the excitement of a match like him. Commentating won’t be the same.” Mark Selby called him “a huge character” who “will be greatly missed.” Even Neil Robertson, who shared the booth with Virgo during the World Championship a few years ago, praised his “amazing pundit/commentator” skills and said the sport had lost “some great people recently.”

Beyond his television work, Virgo was a fixture in snooker’s social fabric. He hosted exhibitions, supported junior players, and mentored younger broadcasters. In 2023, he was inducted into the World Snooker Tour Hall of Fame — an honor acknowledging not only his playing achievements but his enduring contribution to how snooker is seen, heard, and loved globally.

John Virgo died peacefully in Spain, where he had made his home in later years. He is survived by his wife Rosie, son Gary, and daughter Brook-Leah. His funeral, held privately in accordance with his wishes, reflected the quiet dignity that characterized his life.

As Neal Foulds wrote: “Thanks for all the great memories JV.” Those memories — of laughter in the commentary box, of trick shots on Big Break, of late-night chats with players — will keep John Virgo alive in the hearts of snooker fans everywhere. His voice may be silent, but his spirit remains part of every frame we watch.