The idea of the prestigious World Darts Championship (WDC) being held in Saudi Arabia has sparked debate within the darts community, with Gerwyn Price, the 2021 champion, expressing his support for the move.
PDC (Professional Darts Corporation) president Barry Hearn previously hinted at Saudi Arabia’s strong interest in hosting darts tournaments, citing their successful collaborations with Matchroom (Hearn’s company) in snooker and boxing. While acknowledging the traditional atmosphere of Ally Pally, London, the current WDC venue, Hearn is exploring options due to the sport’s growing global popularity.
Gerwyn Price, a vocal figure in the sport, took to social media to endorse a potential move to Saudi Arabia. Price suggested it could be a positive change, citing issues with disruptive fans at Ally Pally. He stated his belief that a different environment could be “less drunken hooligans that aren’t fans, causing fights, that turn up once in a blue moon and spoil/dictate the outcome of the game in what’s the most important event of the year for the players.”
However, Price’s stance hasn’t been universally welcomed. Many fans cherish the vibrant atmosphere and tradition associated with Ally Pally. The potential lack of alcohol sales in Saudi Arabia, a cornerstone of the darts pub culture, is another point of contention.
The PDC has yet to confirm any official plans to move the WDC. With Ally Pally’s contract expiring next year, Hearn is clearly weighing his options. While some players, like Price, might welcome a change, the potential loss of the Ally Pally experience and the cultural differences of Saudi Arabia pose significant challenges. The debate surrounding a potential shift in WDC location is likely to continue.
