The world of snooker is mourning the loss of John Virgo, a beloved figure known for his playing career and extensive broadcasting work. Virgo, aged 79, passed away on February 4, 2026. His funeral took place in Spain on Valentine's Day, with a second memorial service planned for Sheffield Cathedral in April.
Details of Passing and Tributes
John Virgo, a prominent personality in snooker for decades, died at his home in Spain. The cause of his death has been reported as a ruptured aorta. His wife, Rosie Virgo, shared an emotional tribute, remembering him as "the love of my life."
The news of Virgo's death was met with widespread sadness within the snooker community and beyond. Many prominent figures, including Shaun Murphy, Ronnie O'Sullivan, and Stephen Hendry, have paid their respects.
Murphy described Virgo as a "great bloke" and emphasized the character he brought to the sport.
O'Sullivan expressed his devastation, calling Virgo a "great mate" and thanking him for the memories.
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A minute's silence was observed in Virgo's honor at the World Grand Prix event.
Virgo's Career Highlights
Born on March 4, 1946, in Salford, England, John Virgo turned professional in 1976. He achieved significant success as a player, with his career highlight being the UK Championship title win in 1979. He also reached the semi-finals of the World Championship in the same year.
Following his retirement from professional play in 1994, Virgo transitioned to broadcasting. He became widely recognized as the "voice of snooker" for the BBC, where his catchphrase, "Where's the cue ball going?", became a signature element of his commentary. He also gained popularity as a co-presenter of the 1990s television show "Big Break" alongside comedian Jim Davidson.
Virgo was known for his entertaining style, including impressions of rival players and trick shot routines.
His broadcasting career with the BBC spanned over three decades, with his last commentary noted as being for the Masters final just 17 days prior to his passing.
Evidence
Date of Death: February 4, 2026 (Articles 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8)
Age at Death: 79 (Articles 1, 3, 4, 6, 8)
Location of Death: Spain (Articles 1, 3, 4, 6)
Cause of Death: Ruptured aorta (Articles 3, 4, 6)
Funeral Location: Spain (Article 1)
Date of Funeral: Valentine's Day (February 14) (Article 1)
Planned Memorial Service: Sheffield Cathedral in April (Article 1)
Key Figures Paying Tribute: Shaun Murphy, Ronnie O'Sullivan, Stephen Hendry, Rosie Virgo (Wife) (Articles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
Professional Snooker Career Start: 1976 (Article 7)
Major Playing Achievements: UK Championship winner (1979), World Championship semi-finalist (1979) (Articles 1, 7)
Broadcasting Career: BBC commentator for over three decades, co-presenter of "Big Break" (Articles 1, 3, 4, 8)
Last Known Commentary: Masters final (Article 4, 8)
Expert Analysis
"He never forced himself or his opinions on anybody. He then went on to become a friend and colleague." - Shaun Murphy, Snooker Player
"I learned so much from him." - Shaun Murphy, Snooker Player
"Absolutely gutted. Such a great mate who I loved spending time with. Thoughts with all John’s family and friends. Thanks for all the great memories JV." - Ronnie O'Sullivan, Snooker Player
Rosie Virgo, wife of John Virgo, described him as "the love of my life" in an emotional tribute.
Conclusion
The passing of John Virgo marks the end of an era for snooker. His dual career as a successful player and a charismatic broadcaster cemented his status as a cherished figure in the sport. The tributes from fellow professionals underscore the respect and affection he commanded. His funeral in Spain and the upcoming memorial in Sheffield highlight the widespread impact of his life and career. The cause of his death, a ruptured aorta, offers a clear understanding of the sudden nature of his passing, which occurred just weeks after his final televised commentary.
Sources
Mirror: https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/other-sports/snooker/john-virgo-funeral-bbc-snooker-36729217 - Article confirming funeral details and initial tributes.
The Sun (Tribute): https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/38115611/john-virgo-snooker-dead-tributes/ - Article featuring tributes from Shaun Murphy and details of a minute's silence.
Manchester Evening News: https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/uk-news/john-virgos-wife-pays-tribute-33366036 - Article detailing the cause of death and wife Rosie's tribute.
Metro: https://www.metro.co.uk/2026/02/04/john-virgo-cause-of-death-revealed-as-his-widow-rosie-pays-emotional-tribute-26707401/ - Article confirming cause of death and Rosie Virgo's tribute.
The Sun (O'Sullivan): https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/38119890/ronnie-osullivan-john-virgo-tribute-snooker/ - Article detailing Ronnie O'Sullivan's tribute and the minute's silence at the World Grand Prix.
Express: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/othersport/2166895/john-virgo-cause-of-death-confirmed-wife-tribute - Article confirming cause of death and wife's tribute.
Memorietree: https://memoritree.com/memorial/john-trevor-virgo - Obituary detailing birthdate, professional start, playing achievements, and transition to broadcasting.
Irish Times: https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/2026/02/04/john-virgo-obituary-the-snooker-star-who-was-player-broadcaster-and-entertainer/ - Obituary discussing his career as a player, broadcaster, and entertainer, noting his last commentary.
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