An unusual interruption occurred during the Bahrain Darts Masters match between Gian van Veen and Danny Noppert.
Both players had just found their rhythm when they were unexpectedly asked to leave the stage so organizers could resolve an issue. Such a stoppage is extremely rare, especially with the players already in the middle of a leg.
Earlier in the session, Michael van Gerwen progressed without any difficulties against Stephen Bunting. With that victory, the Dutchman became the first player to secure a place in the semifinals, which will be played later in the same session, followed immediately by the final.
Another striking detail at the event is the presence of a Formula 1 car on stage. While a car is traditionally displayed as a prize for hitting a nine-darter, this is not the case at this tournament. The Formula 1 theme extends further, with the scoreboard design inspired by a sports car tachometer.
I’m available if you need me @OfficialPDC 😘 https://t.co/M9kcgKbM4X
— Rob Cross (@RobCross180) January 16, 2026
Although no official partnership between the PDC and Formula 1 has been announced, the visual elements strongly suggest a collaboration, at least for events held in the Middle East. Or was this a way to say like they do in Formula 1: “It’s lights out and away we go!”
While a nine-darter at the Bahrain Darts Masters does not result in winning an F1 car, something special awaits players at next week’s Saudi Arabia Darts Masters. There, a perfect leg will be rewarded with £100,000, with the opportunity to double that amount.
The doubling mechanism is particularly unique. After throwing a nine-darter, the player will be given a single dart at the bullseye to turn the prize into £200,000. An extraordinary rule that will be applied live during matches if the situation arises.
This spectacle will take place on Monday 19 January and Tuesday 20 January.