The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) has announced that events will be played exclusively using Winmau dartboards in a five-year partnership.
The Winmau Blade 6 Triple Core dartboard is now set to be used in every PDC event through to 2027, starting from Thursday’s opening Cazoo Premier League night in Cardiff at the Motorpoint Arena.
PDC Chairman, Eddie Hearn, commented: “This record-breaking deal is a massive moment for the PDC, Winmau and the sport of darts. Winmau is a brand known across the world and it’s exciting that their products, led by the Blade 6 Triple Core dartboard, will be used by the PDC in the coming years and showcased globally in our biggest events.
“Their support will also extend to backing our developmental tours in addition to their existing partnership with the JDC, matching our ambition to produce future generations of stars to take this sport forward.”
In what has been described as ‘the biggest deal of its kind’ in the sport’s history, Winmau will also become the title sponsor of the Challenge Tour, Development Tour and World Youth Championship.
Winmau Managing Director, Vincent Bluck, noted: “The Professional Darts Corporation are the undisputed leaders in the global distribution of world-class darts, by delivering performances and moments not thought possible even a decade ago.
“They have captured millions of new fans and players for the game that we all love and we’re absolutely delighted to be embarking on this new partnership with the superb team at the PDC.
“Winmau’s passion for grassroots and top televised darts stretches back over 70 years and we look forward to joining forces with the PDC and their global platform in helping continue darts’ growth as one of the most vibrant and dynamic sports on the planet.”
The brand is already a partner of the PDC-affiliated Junior Darts Corporation and also sponsors top professionals including Michael van Gerwen, Joe Cullen, Daryl Gurney, Simon Whitlock and Steve Beaton.
“Broadcasting to countless millions worldwide and driving engagement like we’ve never seen before, the PDC’s televised majors have created top stars such as the latest World Champion Peter Wright,” Bluck added.
“So to supply the official dartboards for the PDC is an absolute honour and privilege and testament to the passion that our engineers, designers and production staff all have for darts, working tirelessly to ensure Blade dartboards exceed the exacting requirements demanded by the world’s top professionals and every player alike.
“Darts is one of those unique sports with no barriers to playing the game. Irrespective of age, race, gender, fitness or budget, anyone can have a go and the PDC now has a pathway for players to progress to the very top if they have the ability.”
The PDC’s prize fund has reached £15 million in 2022, with the winner of the upcoming competition gaining a total of £250,000 as Peter Wright will look to retain his titles after beating Michael Smith in the World Championships earlier this month.
