ROME, ITALY – 7 August 2026 — The World Pool Association (WPA) and Predator Group have announced a landmark extension of their long-standing partnership, signing a new agreement that will see the organizations work together through 2036 to continue driving the global growth of professional pool.
The announcement was made following the successful conclusion of the 2026 Banca del Fucino WPA Women’s 10-Ball World Championship in Rome, where Margarita Fefilova Styer captured her maiden WPA world title in a thrilling championship final against defending champion Chezka Centeno.
The week also showcased the continued evolution of the sport with two milestone events: the inaugural Predator Wheelchair Open, won by Henrik Larsson, and the first-ever FUJIFILM Women’s Doubles Master Showdown, where Kristina Tkach and Chou Chieh-Yu emerged victorious. Together, the events highlighted the shared commitment of the WPA and Predator Group to expanding opportunities across women’s, parasport and professional cue sports.
The newly signed agreement represents a long-term investment in the future of the sport, providing stability for athletes and organizers while strengthening the international calendar across multiple disciplines.
Predator Group CEO Karim Belhaj emphasized the significance of the partnership.
“We’re making a long-term commitment to the sport. We’ve signed agreements covering the next ten years, representing close to USD $12 million in prize money to continue growing pool together.
“This sends a clear message that we’re building the future of the sport as one team. Players can have confidence that these events will continue to grow, and together we’re developing 8-ball, 9-ball and 10-ball over the next decade.”
WPA President Ishaun Singh welcomed the extension, highlighting the trust built between the two organizations over recent years.
“We are fortunate to have a partner in Predator that has consistently delivered beyond expectations. Their commitment has helped transform the professional pool, and the WPA is proud to continue this relationship through a long-term agreement.
“This partnership benefits every part of our sport—from women’s events and men’s championships to junior development and parasport. Together, we are creating a stronger future for cue sports worldwide.”
Belhaj also reaffirmed the organizations’ shared commitment to women’s cue sports.
“The sport will only continue to grow if we keep investing in women, and that’s exactly what we’re doing together. The athletes are the stars, and this week Margarita became one of those stars. Over the next ten years, we look forward to helping create many more world champions.”
The renewed partnership reinforces the shared vision of the WPA and Predator Group to elevate professional pool on the global stage through world-class championships, increased prize funds, expanded opportunities for athletes, and continued investment in the sport’s long-term development.
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World Pool Association (WPA)
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