The top four players from this year’s Austrian Masters Snooker League have earned their places in the first-ever ÖSBV Finals, scheduled for January 10–11, 2026 at the Austrian Snooker and Billiards Academy in Vienna.
Defending champion Hans Nirnberger (SCAH) booked his finals spot with a 3-1 quarterfinal win over clubmate and Masters European Championship participant Clausdieter Franschitz.
Hans Nirnberger, referee Erich Pließnig, Clausdieter Franschitz; © ÖSBV
Likewise, season leader Garry Balter (15 Reds) claimed a 3-1 victory against Peyman Chitsaz of Snooker Bulls Salzburg.
Garry Balter, referee and TD Patrick Stegmeier, Peyman Chitsaz; © ÖSBV
The most decisive result came from Bernhard Wallner (15 Reds), who defeated Andreas Kosić (HSEBC) 3-0 and recorded the tournament’s highest break so far with 56 points.
Bernhard Wallner, referee Walter Kunz, Andreas Kosić; © ÖSBV
Meanwhile, in the closest quarterfinal, Wallner and Balter’s clubmate Mario Grabner narrowly lost 2-3 to Christian Hochmayer (FBC).
Christian Hochmayer, referee Bernd Sadleder, Mario Grabner; © ÖSBV
For the first time, the ÖSBV Finals will feature all medal-deciding matches over a single weekend. The full schedule will be announced after the Championships registrations close on December 14, 2025.
ÖSBV Sports Director Patrick Stegmeier officiated as the tournament director, assisted by Patrick Stift (HSEBC, certified TD). Referees on the first day included Walter Kunz, Bernd Sadleder and Erich Pließnig, with Stegmeier joining the officiating team for the quarterfinals.
» Results Austrian Masters Championship Qualifier
Title photograph: © ÖSBV