Ex-snooker star Silvino Francisco dead at 78: Former British Open champion, who spent three years in jail, passes away – as tributes pour in for South African

Former snooker star Silvino Francisco – who won the 1985 British Open – has died aged 78.

The South African reached a career-high rank of No 10 and is the only player born in Africa to win a snooker ranking event. 

Francisco passed away on December 14, with the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) confirming the news on Saturday.

‘WST (World Snooker Tour) and WPBSA extend our sincere condolences to Silvino’s wife June and all of his family and friends,’ a statement read. 

His British Open final victory over Kirk Stevens, aired on ITV, saw 15.5million fans tune in and earned him a then record-breaking prize of £50,000. 

‘The Silver Fish’ enjoyed a long and illustrious career in the game, playing at the World Championship at the Crucible for eight successive years from 1982 and recording memorable wins over the likes of Jimmy White and Alex Higgins. 

The South African remains the only player born in Africa to win a snooker ranking event

The sad news comes just weeks after the death of snooker legend Terry Griffiths

However, the latter part of Francisco’s career proved a struggle. His world ranking dropped to No 166, he suffered with gambling and took a job in a fish and chip shop to make ends meet. 

Francisco was declared bankrupt in 1996 and retired the following year before being arrested after admitting smuggling cannabis, with a street value of £155,000, through Dover. 

Francisco served three years in prison for the offence before remaining in England and dedicating himself to charitable endeavours, particularly those that supported underprivileged youth and promoted the development the next generation of snooker stars.

Heartfelt tributes poured in for the colourful 80s star after news of his death. 

‘Silvino Francisco. Talented player. British Open Champion 1985. Sadly he took a few wrong turns in life, but eventually found redemption. God rest him,’ one fan wrote on X.

‘RIP Silvino Francisco. Thoughts with your family,’ posted another. 

‘Another loss to the snooker world in 2024. RIP. Silvino Francisco,’ read a further message.  

The sad news comes just weeks after the death of snooker legend Terry Griffiths, who passed away aged 77 following a battle with dementia.