VTM Extends PDC Partnership, Boosting Darts Coverage in Belgium
Belgian broadcaster VTM has expanded its partnership with the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC), securing rights to broadcast all European Tour tournaments starting in 2027. This expansion builds upon a successful collaboration that began in 2020, providing increased exposure for the sport in Belgium, which is experiencing growing popularity.
Expanding Coverage
Currently, VTM provides free-to-air coverage of PDC’s Premier Events, including the World Darts Championship and Premier League, as well as Belgian European Tour events. From 2027, the agreement will encompass live coverage of all European Tour tournaments across VTM’s linear channels, VTM 4 and VTM 4, and its streaming service, VTM GO. PDC Europe
Growth of Darts in Belgium
The deal expansion coincides with a surge in darts’ popularity within Belgium. The European Tour’s Belgian Darts Open in Wieze and a sold-out Premier League night at the AFAS Arena in Antwerp in February are key indicators of this growth. The 2026 Belgian Darts Open is scheduled for March 20-22, featuring local talent competing for the title. Wikipedia
PDC and VTM: A Shared Vision
Matt Porter, PDC Chief Executive, expressed his enthusiasm for the extended partnership, stating, “We’re delighted to extend and expand our partnership with VTM, who have been instrumental in the growth of darts in Belgium in recent years.” He further emphasized the significance of increased coverage, highlighting its role in strengthening the partnership and furthering the sport’s rise in the region. PDC Europe
Broader PDC Broadcast Partnerships
This agreement with VTM is part of a broader trend of expanding broadcast partnerships for the PDC. Recent deals include an extension with DAZN across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland (DACH) through 2031. Sky continues to hold the main package of rights in the UK, while ITV renewed its agreement to cover The Masters, UK Open, European Championship, and the Players Championship finals, as well as select World Series of Darts events, until 2028. Additional agreements have been reached with Viaplay (the Netherlands) and L’Equipe (France). PDC TV
Recent Tournament Results
The 2026 Lecot Belgian Darts Open, held from March 20-22, saw Luke Humphries defeat Jonny Clayton 8-6 in the final to claim his ninth European Tour title. Luke Littler, the defending champion, was defeated 6-5 by Niels Zonneveld in the third round, ending his 12-match unbeaten streak at the tournament. The total prize fund for the event was £230,000, with £35,000 awarded to the winner. Sky Sports, Wikipedia