Raymond van Barneveld, one of darts’ best-known personalities and a five-time world champion, has been granted special permission to take part in the upcoming World Seniors Champion of Champions tournament. This announcement has sparked considerable reaction within the darts community, as Van Barneveld, aged 58, is still an active Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) Tour Card holder – a status that traditionally precludes involvement in most televised or streamed competitions operating outside PDC control.
Van Barneveld’s invitation, which he accepted as a wildcard entry for the event scheduled at the MODUS Live Lounge in Portsmouth on 29 June, surprised many followers of the sport. Typically, PDC players are restricted from appearing in rival televised tournaments unless explicit clearance is granted. After public speculation and curiosity about the Dutchman’s future with the PDC, official confirmation clarified that he remains a member of the professional circuit and has simply received this exception for the specific seniors competition.
A spokesperson from the PDC, when approached for comment, stated: “Raymond has asked for, and been granted, permission to play in the event.” Their confirmation underlined that this dispensation is not an indication of Van Barneveld stepping away from the mainstream PDC competitions, but rather a courtesy extended to an established figure in the sport.
Jason Francis, chairman of the World Seniors Darts organisation, also took to social media to confirm that proper protocols had been meticulously followed in securing Van Barneveld’s appearance. Through his post on X (formerly Twitter), Francis reassured fans and players alike: “RVB followed the correct procedures, and permission was granted. It’s all good.” Francis further elaborated that the existing PDC contract framework allows players to formally apply for permission to participate in non-PDC events, and expressed delight at this opportunity for Van Barneveld to enhance the competition.
From a broader standpoint, this temporary rule-bending has prompted questions about whether it could pave the way for other PDC competitors, particularly lower-ranked players, to request similar opportunities. Former world champion Keith Deller raised the possibility on social media, and Francis responded by reiterating the discerning yet open-minded stance of both organisations. Speaking about the calibre of competition poised for the event, Francis stated: “Darts is the winner here.”
Van Barneveld, reflecting on his upcoming appearance, voiced enthusiasm for revisiting old rivalries and rejoining a field that will include the likes of Simon Whitlock, Steve Beaton and Mervyn King. “I am looking forward to playing in this event,” Van Barneveld said. He noted the popularity of World Seniors Darts, both for players and supporters, and the quality of play consistently exhibited. “The loyalty of the crowd and the growth of interest in the seniors tour has been fantastic. I’m excited to see some familiar faces from my earlier BDO days,” he added.
Demonstrating his trademark professionalism, Van Barneveld insisted he would not underestimate the competition. “I’m not coming to Portsmouth expecting an easy win. The standard remains high, and I’ll be preparing diligently. Players like Simon Whitlock, Steve Beaton and Mervyn King – who have only just exited the main tour – plus decorated seniors world champions, will be formidable opposition. It will be a genuine contest.”
Importantly, there is no suggestion that Van Barneveld’s participation in the World Seniors tournament signals a withdrawal from the PDC circuit. Reports confirm he is preparing to compete at next month’s PDC World Matchplay in Blackpool, which is one of the major highlights of the professional darts calendar.
The decision to allow Van Barneveld’s temporary move is widely seen as a boost for the profile of the World Seniors series, while reaffirming darts’ inclusive and evolving spirit. Should more players seek and obtain similar permissions, the overlap between the senior and mainstream circuits could offer a richer narrative for fans and further opportunities for experienced players to remain visible and competitive.
With all eyes on Portsmouth at the end of June, the anticipation is building for an event that promises both nostalgia and top darts action – with the added intrigue of one of the game’s living legends stepping up to the oche once more. As Jason Francis quipped, in this instance, “darts is certainly the winner”.