No plans to leave ‘iconic’ Ally Pally

Professional Darts Corporation chief executive Matt Porter says it would take “something very special” to move the World Championship away from Alexandra Palace, despite the Luke Littler effect on the sport.

The 17-year-old has thrust darts into the mainstream consciousness following his breakthrough run to the final at Ally Pally over Christmas.

The PDC has reported a huge increase in viewing figures and engagement since Littler’s arrival on the scene and he is set to be the main attraction at the worlds later this year.

But not everyone will get a ticket for the north

British number one Cameron Norrie booked his place in the quarterfinals of the Barcelona Open with a straight-sets win over home favourite Roberto Bautista Agut.

Norrie secured the 200th tour-level victory of his career with a 6-4 6-3

London venue, which has hosted the tournament since 2008 and is considered the home of the sport, as they sell out in July before even hitting general sale.

But the PDC is not considering moving to a bigger venue and are in talks to extend its stay at the 3,200-capacity Ally Pally beyond the 2024/25 edition.

“Ally Pally is an iconic venue, it is a beloved venue,” Porter said.

“The World Darts Championship at Ally Pally at Christmas, those three things go together in the same way Wimbledon, strawberries and cream and the summer fit together.

“It is a fantastic venue for the event.”

success in one hour and 24 minutes and will face either Tomas Etcheverry or Brandon Nakashima in the last eight.

“On the score it was easy but it was a lot of tough points in there,” Norrie said.

“I felt like I was moving well and I was pleased with my footwork.”