Huge change to World Darts Championship dartboards announced as stunned fans question whether it's a 'hoax'

Fans have been left shocked over a huge change made to the dartboards for the upcoming World Darts Championships.

The tournament takes place at the iconic Alexandra Palace from December 15 until January 3, with Michael Smith looking to defend his crown after beating Michael van Gerwen in incredible fashion.

96 darts players from across the globe will compete tut there's a twist this time around.

The dartboard in use by players will have a drastic new look that might take some getting used to for players and fans alike.

As part of the sponsorship with Paddy Power, treble 20 on the board will be green.

The bed is traditionally red but that's all changing, with PDC making the announcement on Monday and hosting an official launch with the new dartboard in London.

Players were allowed to test out the new dartboard, where the alteration has been made with science in mind.

According to research, the colour green is at the centre of our visual spectrum - and is much easier to see than red and blue.

Image: Paddy Power

Green is perceived more accurately and is also said to bring improved precision and decreased eye fatigue.

With that being said, it could therefore lead to more treble 20s.

“We have always said as an organisation that we want to move and evolve with the times," PDC chief executive Matthew Porter said.

“If after 30 years of our World Championship being played on a traditional dartboard, change means improvement for the standard and quality of the sport, and it directly benefits the health of players, then we owe it to them to give it a go.

"We saw 901 180s struck during last year’s tournament and maybe we’ll break the 1,000 mark this year for the first time ever. It's great to be working with Paddy Power and we hope the players are as excited about this change as we are."

Image: Getty

Winmau are once again producing the boards, which will sit amongst a green stage and backdrop.

One fan wasn't having any of it though and given Paddy Power's previous, described it as a "massive hoax".

Topics: Darts, Fan Reactions

Josh Lawless

Josh is a sports journalist who specialises in football and wrestling. He has been published by Curzon Ashton FC, Late Tackle, Manchester City FC, The Mirror, Read Man City and Manchester Evening News. He provides coverage of professional wrestling and has interviewed some of the biggest names in the field - including the first UK interview with The Hardy Boyz after their return to WWE. He has never sported a pair of Lonsdale Slip-ons, contrary to reports.

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