Spectator Record at Darts European Championship: PDC Europe Sets New Standards

PDC Europe has achieved record-breaking ticket sales in 2024, exceeding 300,000 for its European Tour tournaments. The European Championship in Dortmund drew nearly 31,000 spectators, marking a historical milestone. Plans for further international expansion are in place, with potential new tournaments in Switzerland and other countries. Record attendance was also seen at several other events, further emphasizing the sport’s growth and popularity.

In 2024, PDC Europe has set remarkable records in the world of darts, achieving unprecedented success in ticket sales and attendance at its events. The organization sold over 300,000 tickets for 13 tournaments on the European Tour, significantly surpassing the previous record of 260,000 from the prior year. Notably, the European Championship held in Dortmund attracted nearly 31,000 spectators, marking a historical high for the event. This surge in interest is a driving force behind PDC Europe’s ambition to expand its reach. Plans for 2025 include an additional tournament in Switzerland, with aspirations to include a new country by 2026. Managing Director Werner von Moltke articulated the organization’s focus on internationalization, highlighting Spain, Italy, Sweden, Denmark, and Poland as potential markets for future expansion. Other events within the series have also broken attendance records, with the German Darts Grand Prix in Munich drawing over 20,000 fans, making it the best-attended event in the twelve-year history of the European Tour. Furthermore, record attendance figures were reported in Basel and Riesa for daily and session attendance, respectively. However, von Moltke acknowledges that darts still has a long way to go in terms of public perception compared to mainstream sports such as football and tennis. He expressed confidence in the growth potential within the sport, stating that the prize money pool, currently totaling £175,000 (approximately €210,000) per tournament, is set to increase in the future.

The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) Europe has experienced a significant surge in popularity and attendance during the 2024 darts season. With a record number of ticket sales and enthusiastic crowds at various events, the organization is looking to capitalize on this momentum to further internationalize the sport. The rise of attendance highlights darts’ increasing visibility and the potential for growth in new markets, thereby attracting more fans and increasing prize money for participants.

In conclusion, PDC Europe’s establishment of new records in both ticket sales and attendance at darts events exemplifies the sport’s growing popularity and the organization’s commitment to expanding its global footprint. As they look towards international markets and additional tournaments, the future appears promising for darts enthusiasts and players alike. The acknowledgment of existing challenges regarding perception underscores the need for continued efforts to bolster the sport’s visibility in comparison to more established sports.

Original Source: www.ran.de