The future of the World Darts Championship is in question as discussions continue over a potential move from its iconic venue at Alexandra Palace. With capacity maxed out, relocation options are being explored — and Saudi Arabia is emerging as a serious contender.
Darts legend and former referee Russ Bray says such a move “makes sense.” Speaking with talkSPORT, Bray acknowledged that the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) operates as a business, and that leaders like Barry and Eddie Hearn and CEO Matt Porter will ultimately make the call based on strategic and financial benefits.
Saudi Arabia has been investing heavily in global sports, including football, boxing, snooker, and now potentially darts. With significant financial incentives on offer, the possibility of players like Luke Littler competing for £2 million at a Saudi-hosted world final is no longer far-fetched.
“There’s a real chance of this happening,” Bray explained. “If they offer more than what players get now, the PDC will consider it.”
However, cultural hurdles remain. Darts events are famously associated with alcohol, something not permitted in Saudi Arabia. Barry Hearn addressed this issue directly:
“I asked them if we could have alcohol at events, and they said no. I replied, ‘Then you can’t have darts.’”
Despite this, Hearn admits that Saudi Arabia’s growing presence in the sports world could eventually reshape expectations. Bray and others remain open to future talks.
As Saudi Arabia eyes its next major sporting conquest, the darts world watches closely — including top talents like Luke Littler, who may find themselves on an even bigger global stage soon.
