"I know I’ve still got it in me, I still believe in myself": Raymond van Barneveld not giving up on winning majors despite current plight

Raymond van Barneveld is embarking on a new chapter in his illustrious darts career. The five-time world champion has announced a partnership with management agency Invictus Darts, with which he hopes to reinvigorate his sporting career and lay the groundwork for his future after professional darts.

For the 59-year-old from The Hague, the switch comes at a crucial moment. Van Barneveld is enduring a difficult season so far and is struggling to produce the results he once delivered almost as a matter of course. His world ranking is under serious pressure, and participation in several major TV events, including the World Darts Championship, is anything but guaranteed.

Even so, the Dutch darts legend remains optimistic. In a video announcing his new partnership, Van Barneveld spoke with conviction about his ambitions. “I still want to do well on the majors and on the Euro Tour. Maybe winning still a couple of tournaments. I know I’ve still got it in me, I still believe in myself.”

Those words underline that Van Barneveld, despite this challenging spell, is not thinking about giving up. The former world champion is convinced he can still reach the level that kept him among the absolute elite for so many years.

Van Barneveld makes no secret of the fact that 2026 is not going as hoped. The Dutchman candidly admits the results are disappointing and that he is seeking fresh energy to turn the tide. “It's not the best year so far, but with the help of Invictus we’re going to work harder together.”

The partnership also comes shortly after the much-discussed split with his former manager Ben de Kok. Van Barneveld did not comment on that situation in the announcement, but it is clear he wants to look ahead with his new management.

Invictus Darts represents several well-known players and is part of the Triple S Group. Notably, former England football international Wayne Rooney is an ambassador for the organisation. Rooney welcomed Van Barneveld to the agency on social media, a warm gesture widely picked up by darts fans.

Although Van Barneveld still dreams of fresh success, he knows better than anyone how fierce the competition is right now. The new generation has cemented itself at the top, with Luke Littler and Luke Humphries in particular dominating the big events.

Asked whether he can still win a major, Van Barneveld gave a realistic answer. “My head says yes. But it's tough at the moment, with Mr Luke Littler and Luke Humphries. I'm doing my best”

That remark shows he still trusts his own ability, while fully aware of the current balance of power on the pro circuit.

Alongside his sporting goals, Van Barneveld is also looking ahead to the period after his active career. While he has no plans to hang up his darts just yet, he is already thinking about a role in which he can use his vast experience for the good of the sport. “I'd love to give something back to the sport. I’ve had all the opportunities, all my dreams have come true.”

A role as an international ambassador particularly appeals to him. “Maybe a global ambassador, travel all over the world. I’d like that. I can teach people something and make darts exciting."

With his impressive track record, Van Barneveld would be a logical candidate. As a five-time world champion and one of the pioneers of darts’ popularity in the Netherlands, he still commands great respect worldwide.

The partnership with Invictus Darts marks more than just a business move. For Van Barneveld, it signals a fresh start in a phase of his career where results are no longer a given, but the motivation remains undiminished.

Whether the new collaboration will spark a sporting resurgence will become clear in the coming months. One thing is certain: Raymond van Barneveld refuses to fade into obscurity. As long as he believes success is still possible, he will keep chasing new highlights on darts’ biggest stage.