WDF announced big plans including a Masters and World Championship as well as potentially taking over the Grand Slam of Darts spots from this year onwards; an update has been given on events this year with Coronavirus playing a deciding factor.
The statement released by
Richard Ashdown who is the Chief Development Officer for the
WDF puts on hold their ambitions to stage a Masters event this year; due to many factors surrounding Coronavirus.
But in terms of the World Championship, this could still take place this year; with it being launched 'at the earliest opportunity'.
"Despite our best efforts and intentions, unfortunately there will be no WDF World Masters at the end of the 2020 season. Without national championships, ranking events and qualifiers being played since March; to assemble 600+ players from 60+ countries would be extremely difficult," said Ashdown in their
statement.
"With finance, travel restrictions and most importantly health to consider in the months ahead; the decision has been made to postpone the launch of what will be an exciting and innovative WDF World Masters until 2021.
Discussions with our commercial partners are ongoing with regards to the WDF World Championships. With changes to government guidelines, these are challenging times indeed. Every effort is being made to secure and launch this event at the earliest opportunity."
https://twitter.com/DartsWDF/status/1291389087862198274?s=20