DARTS ACE QUESTIONS PDC OVER BARNEY INCLUSION ON SENIOR CIRCUIT
25/06/2025 By Aaron Nijjar
RAYMOND VAN BARNEVELD’S shock wildcard entry into the upcoming World Seniors Champion of Champions has set tongues wagging across the darts world.
The PDC ordinarily refuses to allow any of their active Tour Card holders to compete in any televised event not under their jurisdiction.
But five-time world champion Van Barneveld has broken that barrier and will participate in the 12-man event on Sunday, June 29 at the MODUS Live Lounge in Portsmouth.
Former UK Open finalist and close friend Vincent van der Voort was critical of the decision.
He said: “It’s a bizarre decision. The PDC has never allowed this sort of thing before, so why now?
“Tour Card holders have always been banned from playing in other federations’ events.
“The Dutch Open, for example — no chance of taking part if you’re under contract with the PDC. And now suddenly Raymond’s allowed to?
“That sets a precedent. What if Gary Anderson or Peter Wright want to play next year — will they get the same treatment?”
Van der Voort believes the governing body should consider loosening restrictions for players ranked outside the top 64.
He added: “Those guys could really benefit from the opportunity to compete elsewhere.
“It gives them valuable stage time, more media exposure, and helps attract or retain sponsors.
“At the end of the day, it’s about building a sustainable career.”
‘The Dutch Destroyer’ singled out world No. 110 Wesley Plaisier as a player who could benefit from featuring on the senior circuit.
He explained: “There’s not much incentive for a sponsor to back him right now — and that’s a real shame.
“A bit more flexibility from the PDC could go a long way.”
Image by Taylor Lanning.
