The darts world is buzzing with major news! Uganda has made a historic entry into the World Cup of Darts for the very first time, marking a significant milestone for African darts. Meanwhile, the German Darts Federation (DDV) has elected an entirely new board, signaling a fresh start for the organization. Adding to the headlines, darts sensation Luke Littler is taking proactive steps to trademark his own face, protecting his image in the digital age. This week’s roundup also features thrilling results from the Modus Darts Super Series, the DPNZ Tour in New Zealand, the African Continental Tour North, and WDF events in Northern Ireland and Canada, alongside an expanded TV deal for darts in Belgium.
Uganda Makes History: First-Ever World Cup of Darts Qualification!
In a groundbreaking moment for African darts, Uganda has qualified for the World Cup of Darts for the very first time! This historic achievement came during the African Continental Tour North qualifier held in Nairobi, Kenya. The Ugandan duo of Patrick Ocheng and Juma Said triumphed in the World Cup Qualifier final, defeating Malawi’s Rodgers Zako and Carnage Mkandawire with a decisive 8-3 victory. This win secures their spot in the prestigious tournament in Frankfurt, showcasing the growing talent in African darts.
Earlier in the tour’s opening event, local favorite Peter Wachiuri claimed victory, overcoming Benson Ngari 8-5 in the final.
German Darts Federation (DDV) Elects New Leadership Amidst Calls for Change
The German Darts Federation (DDV) has undergone a significant leadership overhaul. Following pressure from regional associations, the previous DDV board was prompted to resign, leading to the election of a new executive committee in Maintal. The new board aims to steer the federation back on track.
The newly elected DDV board members are:
- President: Christian Baumgartner (who also serves as President in the Bavarian Darts Association)
- Vice President: Marcus Maier (a former Lakeside World Championship participant)
- Treasurer: Charline Marggraf
- National Match Director: Oliver Moos
- National Youth Director: Siggi Dallmann (retaining his position)
- Secretary: Manuel Kramer
Numerous committee meetings also took place across finance, youth, sport, and paradart, emphasizing a comprehensive review and strategic planning for the federation’s future.
Luke Littler’s Bold Move: Trademarking His Face to Combat Deepfakes
Darts sensation Luke “The Nuke” Littler is making headlines off the oche by taking a pioneering step to protect his image. His team has filed an application with the Intellectual Property Office to trademark his face. This proactive measure is designed to safeguard Littler against the unauthorized use of his likeness, particularly in the age of “deepfakes” and other AI-generated content. By securing these rights, Littler aims to prevent his face from being misused for advertising or promotional materials without his explicit consent. He had previously trademarked his nickname, “The Nuke,” in the USA.
Tournament Highlights: Global Darts Action Unfolds
The past week saw intense darts action across various tours and regions:
Modus Darts Super Series: Drayton’s Breakthrough Win
In Week 9 of Season 13, newcomer Jack Drayton emerged victorious, defeating former PDC World Championship semi-finalist Jamie Lewis 4-2 in the final. Drayton also bested Jenson Walker 4-2 in the semi-finals, while Lewis whitewashed Joe Hunt 4-0.
- Final: Jack Drayton 4-2 Jamie Lewis (Average: Drayton 95.03, Lewis 88.99)
DPNZ Tour (New Zealand): Robb and Milne Dominate
The DPNZ Tour continued in Christchurch, with Kayden Milne and Ben Robb once again sharing the titles. Milne won Event 3 by defeating Jack Sheppard 7-3, and Robb secured Event 4 with a 7-5 victory over Mark Cleaver.
In the overall rankings for the PDC World Championship 2027 spot, Ben Robb ($2,500) and Kayden Milne ($2,400) lead the pack after four of twelve events. For the World Cup of Darts ranking, Jonny Tata (138 points) and Ben Robb (122 points) are currently in the lead with only two events remaining.
WDF Circuit: Northern Ireland & Canada Crown Champions
The WDF circuit saw a Silver-ranked event at the Northern Ireland Open in Belfast:
- Northern Ireland Open (Men): Neil Duff claimed the title with a 5-3 win over Neil Withers, showcasing a 91-average in the final.
- Northern Ireland Open (Women): Anca Zijlstra defeated Paula Jacklin 5-1.
- Northern Ireland Matchplay (Men): Pat Scurfield won 5-3 against Dylan Quinn.
- Northern Ireland Matchplay (Women): Anca Zijlstra secured another victory, beating Paula Jacklin 4-2 in a rematch.
Across the Atlantic, the AB Darts Open in Quebec, Canada, also crowned champions:
- AB Darts Open (Men): Jean-Michel Legault won the final against Shane Sakchekapo, surviving five match darts.
- AB Darts Open (Women): Kayla Smith secured her first title, beating Naty Marchand 5-2.
Belgian Darts TV Coverage Expands with VTM Deal
Darts fans in Belgium have more to look forward to as broadcaster VTM has extended its TV contract long-term, announced during the Belgian Darts Open. Since 2020, VTM has been covering darts, and the new deal expands their coverage to include not only domestic European Tour events and all major tournaments but also the complete European Tour calendar, bringing comprehensive darts action to Belgian viewers.
Regional German Darts Associations Continue Play
Despite the DDV board meetings, several regional associations held tournaments. In Berlin, national player Annegret Willkomm secured a tournament victory. Events also took place in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Bremen.
Source: Based on an article from dartn.de.
