Michael Van Gerwen shares Gerwyn Price’s view that the World Darts Championship will have success in Saudi Arabia.
Former PDC Chairman stirred up a debate after suggesting the Middle East could be a future contender to host the World Darts Championship from it’s spiritual home to the Middle East.
Price, the 2022 world champion, suggested he would be open to the switch, which has been opposed by fans on social media.
Three-time king of the showpiece tournament Van Gerwen is also open to the move, given the success of boxing and football in the region.
[It] will be great, I think,’ he told the Daily Mail. They wanna make sports big in that country.
“You saw the big boxing games there, the football there. For me, I don’t mind where I play.
“I will be competing, and that’s how it is.”
The infamous North London venue ‘Ally Pally’ has been home to the sport’s grand finale since 2008, since its move from Circus Tavern.
Van Gerwen has seen huge success in the hallowed walls, which have helped him dominate the sport for several years until his fall from world No.1. in 2021.
The sport has now been cannoned into the mainstream stratosphere, which is largely down the arrival of 17-year-old phenomenon Luke Littler.
Around 3,200 tickets are sold out per session at the event, but it is widely known that ticket demand is through the roof and more could be sold.
Price’s point on a move to Saudi Arabia came from a players’ perspective, given the controversial heckling and booing he has received.
The Welsh star even once wore ear defenders in 2023, and believes the removal of alcohol in the crowd will benefit the competitors on stage.
He wrote in an Instagram post: “Maybe it’s the way forward, less drunken hooligans that aren’t fans, causing fights, that turn up once in a blue moon.
“It spoil/dictates the outcome of the game in what’s the most important event of the year for the players.
“If you want that atmosphere there’s four months of it with the Premier League.
“People can still enjoy themselves without alcohol.”
For now Price, Van Gerwen and the superstars will flock back to Ally Pally in 2025, but the future of the sport remains unclear as it looks to capitalise on its boom.
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News Summary:
- Michael Van Gerwen agrees with Gerwyn Price’s view on major change for World Darts Championship
- Check all news and articles from the latest Football updates.