The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) has issued a strong warning to fans following disruptions during the Premier League Darts event in Glasgow. The competition, held at the Ovo Arena, was marred by persistent whistling and booing from sections of the crowd, particularly during key matches involving Gerwyn Price, Luke Humphries, and Luke Littler.
During the semi-final clash between Price and Humphries, a heckler repeatedly disrupted play, prompting an agitated response from Price. The issue escalated during the final between Humphries and Littler, where persistent crowd noise interfered with key moments of the match. The disruption led to referee Kirk Bevin making an announcement, urging the audience to refrain from whistling and jeering. However, this appeared to have little effect, as the crowd continued to make noise.
After securing a 6-5 victory over Humphries, Littler, the reigning world champion and defending Premier League champion, expressed his frustration at the situation. He described the environment as “pretty bad” and acknowledged the challenges posed by the crowd interference.
In response to the incidents, the PDC reaffirmed its stance against behavior that disrupts matches. The organization released a statement emphasizing that spectators who interfere with play risk being removed from venues.
“Following Thursday’s Premier League Darts night in Glasgow, the PDC wishes to strongly reiterate that it does not condone any behavior which can disrupt an event, such as whistling or booing when players are throwing,” the statement read.
The governing body underscored that every player steps onto the stage aiming to perform at their best and provide entertainment for fans both in attendance and watching remotely. The PDC also highlighted its collaboration with venues to ensure effective crowd control measures are in place.
“Spectators who act inappropriately can be removed from the venue,” the statement continued. “The PDC works closely with Premier League venues, who have responsibility for crowd control, to take proactive and decisive action against those who behave inappropriately.”
The organization also noted that the majority of darts fans support a positive atmosphere and do not condone disruptive behavior. Moving forward, the PDC aims to maintain an environment where all players can compete without unnecessary distractions.
With the Premier League Darts season in full swing, attention now shifts to the next event in Dublin on 20 February. Humphries, who won the opening night in Belfast, currently leads the table with eight points. Littler sits in second place with five points, followed closely by Michael van Gerwen, who has four points.
As the competition progresses, the PDC remains committed to ensuring that crowd behavior does not overshadow the action on the stage.
