Darts has transformed over the past few decades, from a game many played for leisure into a multi-million-pound global powerhouse. Thanks to several factors, such as professional tournaments, sponsorship deals, and the increasing popularity of gambling in the sport, it is no longer just about throwing darts at a board; it is big business. It engages millions of fans worldwide, and in this article, we’ll discuss the business side of the sport.
The Role of Gambling in Darts
An aspect of darts that has grown in the recent past is gambling. It has surged in popularity due to the sport’s year-round calendar; unlike other sports, there is no summer break, and the straightforward knockout format. Darts betting online gives gamblers the opportunity to place simple bets on match winners and the number of 180s to more complex bets like who will throw a nine-dart finish. When it comes to the biggest tournament of the year, gamers can find World Darts odds to bet on matches, and also outright markets like tournament winner, quarter finalists, and tournament-winning double. Betting platforms like these not only give users the chance to bet on the sport but can also create more engagement between fans and the sport, benefitting the growth of the game.
Furthermore, sportsbooks have partnered with darts organisations sponsoring tournaments, increasing their visibility during broadcasting. This relationship between sport and betting has played an important role in its recent growth.
The Financials Behind it All
The darts revolution from amateur to professional sport has brought huge financial rewards for players. According to Market Research Future, the industry is worth over $5 billion. This can be seen in the prizemoney on offer. Take, for example, the annual PDC World Darts Championship, held in London, where the player who takes home the famous Sid Waddell trophy will also bag £500,000, a prize on par with many other sporting competitions, with the runner up receiving £200,000. ÂÂ
Television companies have boosted the financials of the sport too purchasing broadcasting agreements to show tournaments during the year. The World Championship final can draw over one million viewers in the UK, allowing companies like Sky Sports and ITV to generate millions in revenue through advertising. The sport is also popular in countries like Germany and the Netherlands, as well as Australia, boosted by players like Michael van Gerwen, Raymond van Barneveld, and Simon Whitlock.
Sponsorship: A Driving Force
Having said all that, when it comes down to it, darts’ financial success relies heavily on major sponsorship, with the majority coming from gambling companies such as Paddy Power. Sponsors lend their names to tournaments while players can be seen with firms emblazoned on their shirts. The global expansion of darts has led to further sponsorship opportunities as more tournaments are held in Australia, the Middle East, Asia, and North America.
From the increase in prize money to its growth globally, darts is progressing on several fronts. It may be hard to believe for a sport that started off from humble beginnings, but the growth is proving darts to be a huge business, beyond the dartboard.
Disclaimer:
CBD:
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The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 (NDPS Act) outlaws the recreational use of cannabis products in India. CBD oil, manufactured under a license issued by the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, can be legally used in India for medicinal purposes only with a prescription, subject to specific conditions. Kindly refer to the legalities here.
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Gambling:
As per the Public Gambling Act of 1867, all Indian states, except Goa, Daman, and Sikkim, prohibit gambling. Land-based casinos are legalized in Goa and Daman under the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act 1976. In Sikkim, land-based casinos, online gambling, and e-gaming (games of chance) are legalized under the Sikkim Online Gaming (Regulation) Rules 2009. Only some Indian states have legalized online/regular lotteries, subject to state laws. Refer to the legalities here. Horse racing and betting on horse racing, including online betting, is permitted only in licensed premises in select states. Refer to the 1996 Supreme Court judgment for more information.
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