SMITH AND MANSELL SNUB HANDSHAKE IN HEATED BELGIUM CLASH
20/03/2026 By Aaron Nijjar
MICHAEL SMITH and Mickey Mansell’s feud continued as they refused to shake hands before a tense Belgian Darts Open clash.
Tensions were already running high after their recent meeting at the European Tour qualifier for the Poland Darts Open, where Mansell edged out Smith in a deciding-leg showdown.
‘Bully Boy’ did not hold back afterwards, launching a furious rant on social media aimed at the Northern Irishman’s style of play.
He wrote on Facebook: “Imagine doing that to win a game. Tinkerbell won’t come along and move your darts for you.
“No need to stand looking at the board for 15 seconds. Horrible mentality. And a horrible player.”
The former world champ faced off against Mansell in round one at Wieze on Friday afternoon, and the bad blood was clear for all to see.
After walking onto the stage, both players snubbed the traditional pre-match handshake.
World No.31 Smith did not exact any revenge either as he fell 6-3 to Mansell despite averaging 98.21 in the bout.
Mansell later broke his silence on social media following the heated encounter.
He wrote on X: “Obviously I’ve got plenty I’d like to say but what’s the point?
“Opinions are like assholes everyone has one!”
The 52-year-old returns to action on Saturday evening where he will face Michael van Gerwen for a place in round three of the European Tour event.
