A dramatic and unexpected incident brought a temporary halt to the pinnacle of world darts, as Gian van Veen spilled his own blood on the dart board during the World Darts Championship final.
Final Interrupted by Unusual Injury
The tense showdown at London's iconic Alexandra Palace on 3rd January 2026 took a startling turn when Dutch contender Gian van Veen suffered a cut to his finger. The injury occurred during his highly anticipated clash against the young English sensation, Luke Littler. In a moment that shocked the packed crowd, a drop of blood from Van Veen's hand transferred onto the playing surface, visibly staining the board.
Officials Step In for Swift Action
Match officials were forced to intervene immediately to ensure fair play and hygiene standards were maintained. The decision was made to stop the contest and change the affected dart board entirely. This procedural pause added a new layer of tension to an already electrifying atmosphere, as both players awaited the swift resolution of the unforeseen situation.
The incident underscores the intense physical and mental pressure of competing in a world final, where a minor mishap can become a major disruption. The focus quickly shifted from the high-stakes scoring to the player's wellbeing and the integrity of the equipment.
Focus Returns to the Oche
Once a fresh board was installed and Van Veen received treatment for his cut, the final was able to resume. The extraordinary event will undoubtedly become a memorable footnote in the history of the championship, contrasting with the usual drama of 180s and checkouts. All eyes returned to the battle between Van Veen and Littler, as they sought to reclaim their momentum and continue their fight for the coveted Sid Waddell Trophy.
