According to the website Dartfreakz, the BDO has debts outstanding with 1:1 Productions. After the tournament, a bill was sent to the British Darts Organisation, which has not been paid yet. Various payment reminders have also been sent.
The Dutch company invested heavily in broadcasting the World Masters. The equipment had to be transported, people had to be hired as well as a satellite for the connection. The bill has risen to over 10,000 euros.
After a number of reminders, BDO chairman Des Jacklin replied with a quick response, saying he 'hopes' to be able to pay after the BDO World Championship. The question is whether or not this will happen. Due mainly to financial problems, the prize fund breakdown was substantially reduced recently.
1: 1 Productions also fears that payment will not be made, because they have hired a lawyer. This lawyer has already sent a letter to Jacklin.
In the same article, a spokesperson from the Dutch production company responded. Owner Erwin Beenhakker is disappointed by the circumstances and hopes that a solution will soon be found to pay the debt.
“It is very sad to see Mr. Jacklin on social media pretending that the World Championship is going so well while we are still waiting for payment for the previous event. We know that budgets are not big on the "BDO circuit". We are therefore very lenient and try to think along with the organisations in all respects in order to offer as much as possible within the financial constraints."
''Then it hurts even more if you are treated that way. There is simply no response. This is a very substantial amount and I am currently dependent on the patience of the suppliers and a large group of freelancers hired for the World Masters'', said Beenhakker.
Dartsnews has asked the BDO chairman for a response. No response has yet been received to this request.