Former world snooker champion Graeme Dott faces trial

A former world snooker champion in Glasgow is charged with historic child sex abuse and will stand trial in 2026.

Former world snooker champion Graeme Dott faces child sex abuse trial

Former world snooker champion Graeme Dott is to stand trial next year on two charges relating to historic child sex abuse. The 48-year-old, who turned professional in 1994 and won the World Championship in 2006, is accused of offences involving a girl in the 1993 to 1996 period and a boy between 2006 and 2010 in the Glasgow region. A virtual hearing at Glasgow High Court heard that Dott, who did not attend, denies the charges. A trial date has been set for 17 August 2026 and bail was continued.

The case highlights how investigations into historic abuse intersect with professional sport and the legal process. It brings safeguarding in sport back into public focus and tests how a high profile athlete is treated in court. Supporters and critics alike will watch closely how the case unfolds and whether due process can be maintained while public scrutiny remains intense.

This case sits at the crossroads of sport legacy and child protection. When a former champion is involved, media attention can shape public perception and pressure institutions to show accountability. It also underscores the long lag between alleged acts and charges in historic cases, which can complicate the gathering of evidence and witness recall. If the process stays fair and transparent, it could strengthen safeguarding standards; if not, it risks eroding trust in both sport and justice.

Highlights

The case will test how sport and law navigate sensitive histories alike.