Darts is set to explode across Belgium! The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) and Belgian media giant VTM have announced a massive expansion of their partnership. From 2027, VTM will broadcast every single PDC event, offering Belgian fans complete, year-round coverage. This groundbreaking deal isn’t just about more darts on TV; it’s a strategic move to cement the sport’s place in Belgium’s heart, nurture local talent, and capitalize on the country’s booming passion for the game. Get ready for an unparalleled darts experience!
The world of darts is buzzing with excitement as the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) reveals a game-changing extension of its collaboration with Belgian media powerhouse VTM. This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a quantum leap that will dramatically boost darts’ reach and popularity throughout Belgium.
A Partnership Transformed: Full PDC Coverage on the Horizon
What began as a promising venture in 2020 has now blossomed into a truly comprehensive and far-reaching alliance. Under the terms of this newly signed agreement, VTM is committed to broadcasting the entire PDC calendar in the coming years. This means Belgian audiences will gain an unprecedented, all-access pass to the global darts scene.
What the New Deal Means for Fans:
- Full Calendar Coverage: From 2027 onwards, every single European Tour event will be broadcast live.
- Multi-Platform Access: Catch all the action across VTM 2, VTM 4, and the popular streaming platform VTM GO. This ensures seamless viewing for everyone, whether they prefer traditional TV or digital streaming.
- Major Events Remain Key: Iconic tournaments like the World Darts Championship and the Premier League will continue to be central to VTM’s darts offering.
- Local Flavor: Comprehensive coverage of European Tour stops held on Belgian soil will also be a highlight.
This expansion creates a year-round spectacle of elite darts, weaving the sport deeper into the everyday sporting fabric of the nation.
Why Belgium is a Darts Hotbed
The timing of this announcement is no accident. Belgium has rapidly emerged as one of darts’ most dynamic and commercially significant growth territories. The country’s enthusiasm for darts is undeniable:
- Belgian Darts Open: The event in Wieze has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of the European Tour, drawing massive crowds.
- Sold-Out Premier League: The recent Premier League visit to Antwerp’s AFAS Arena was a complete sell-out, a clear indicator of the sport’s soaring popularity.
- Passionate Crowds: Belgian audiences are renowned for their fervent, vociferous, and incredibly passionate support. Top players like Luke Littler and Michael van Gerwen have repeatedly praised the unique energy generated by these fans.
Within the PDC, Belgium is no longer just an emerging market; it’s considered a pivotal one, where demand for darts is not only growing but accelerating at an impressive pace.
PDC’s Vision and VTM’s Commitment
PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter expressed his delight at the renewed agreement. “We’re delighted to extend and expand our partnership with VTM,” said Porter. “The broadcaster has played a key role in the growth of darts in Belgium in recent years.”
VTM’s commitment goes beyond simply broadcasting live events. The media giant is actively investing in the sport’s future through various developmental initiatives:
- VTM 2 Darts Academy: A program designed to cultivate future talent.
- VTM Next Gen Darts Academy: Further supporting young Belgian players.
These academies provide structured pathways for aspiring players to progress towards professional competition. The next generation is already making its mark, with young prospects on the Development Tour aiming to follow in the footsteps of national heroes like Dimitri Van den Bergh and Mike De Decker, whose recent successes have set new benchmarks for Belgian darts players.
A Bold Future for Belgian Darts
This expanded partnership is more than just a broadcast deal; it’s a powerful statement of intent. It signifies a bold, forward-looking commitment to embedding darts deeper within Belgium’s sporting identity, while simultaneously nurturing the talent that could one day carry the Belgian flag onto the sport’s grandest stages. The future of darts in Belgium looks incredibly bright.
Source: Based on an article from Darts World Magazine.
