Ricoh delighted to welcome World GP

THE Boylesports World Grand Prix will be held behind closed doors at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena from October 6-12.

The famous double-start tournament had been due to be held for a 20th time at Dublin’s Citywest Convention Centre later this year, with the venue having become a popular destination for darts fans since first hosting it in 2001.

However, the ongoing effects of the coronavirus pandemic mean that it is not possible for the GP to be held in Dublin in 2020, as the event follows the World Matchplay and Premier League in being staged behind closed doors.

It will now take place at the Ricoh, a venue which has previously hosted the Premier League as well as a number of PDC Protour weekends.

“The Boylesports World Grand Prix is one of the highlights of the PDC calendar and whilst we’re disappointed we will not be at the Citywest Convention Centre in 2020, we can now look forward to an exciting and entertaining event at the Ricoh Arena,” said PDC chief executive Matt Porter. “We saw an outstanding standard of play at the recent World Matchplay and are sure that will continue in the World Grand Prix, which remains a challenging and unique event due to the double-start format.”

Ricoh Arena Commercial Venue Director Paul Michael said: “We are really excited and honoured to be able to host the 2020 World Grand Prix behind closed doors.

“This event will strengthen our relationship with the PDC, and demonstrate the diversity of the venue and its ambition to encourage more elite sports to Coventry.”

Play will commence with the first round split across two nights on October 6-7, with the second round taking place on October 8-9.

The quarter-finals will be held on Saturday October 10, with the semifinals on Sunday October 11 and the final on Monday October 12.

Coverage will be shown on Sky Sports.