WPBSA Statement: Liang Wenbo

c in relation to an incident at the Paul Hunter Classic in Furth, Germany on 24th August 2014. During his match with Mark Selby, Liang Wenbo disputed a decision by the referee. After discussion the referee upheld his decision and after a verbal exchange Liang Wenbo conceded the match, which was in breach of the WPBSA rules. He then left the arena and then returned where he verbally abused the referee. This was in front of the crowd whilst other matches were taking place and was audible on Eurosport.

Liang Wenbo admitted the breach of the following rules and apologised for his behaviour..

1.1 Members shall, at all times (i.e. whether at a Tournament or not), behave in a proper and correct manner consistent with their status as professional sportsmen…….
1.2 A Member shall not make or cause to be made any statement or commit or cause to be committed any act which in the reasonable view of the WPBSA is likely to bring into disrepute the games of snooker and/or billiards.

He was also in breach of his players contract which states that;
The player shall not concede a frame in a match unless snookers are required.

He was fined £8,000 and ordered to pay £500 towards the costs of the hearing

The WPBSA Disciplinary Committee consider that the behaviour of Liang Wenbo was unacceptable and is damaging to the sport and it’s reputation.