Barry Hearn confirms Sky Sports might lose PDC Darts with ‘up the ante’ demand
Barry Hearn has delivered a warning to Sky Sports: raise the ante, or risk losing the right to air PDC darts.
Since Hearn, who let his demands slip on The Barry Hearn Show, took a hold of the darting world, players like Luke Littler have been elevated into household names and the days of darts’ biggest names working a second job are well gone.
These successes may not have been possible were it not for Sky Sports, however, as the broadcaster took a punt when airing the inaugural World Matchplay back in 1994, and have stuck by the sport’s side ever since. But, according to Hearn, those golden days could be tarnished if Sky doesn’t play ball at the contract negotiation table.
READ MORE: Ryan Searle delivers ‘worst nine dart attempt in history’ as his opponent takes out 161
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When quizzed on The Barry Hearn Show about the expiry of Sky’s PDC contract next year, Hearn replied: “Handy, that’s very handy. You know, timing is the essence of everything isn’t it?
“Listen, we owe Sky a massive, massive debt. They stuck with us in the early days, and loyalty is a big part of our business. But, also, I have a responsibility to players to maximise their earnings.”
Modern day stars who step up to the oche earn a significant chunk more than those who came before, reports the Mirror. Luke Humphries’ £500,000 wedge for achieving world title glory this year blows Dennis Priestley’s 1994 prize of £16,000 right out of the water.
(Image: PA)
“There’s going to be some interesting conversations,” Hearn continued. “I really I’ve got to tell you now I really hope Sky raise the ante, understand what they’ve built. Understand what it’s worth.
“Compare us to anyone else, I don’t mind. Show me what you pay rugby union, rugby league. Show me what you pay golf, and tell me why I don’t get the same or more.
“It’s my job, it’s a passion, and I’m building something that is, in my own way, my own legacy for when I’m not around. I would like the darts player in 50 years’ time to raise a glass to me. Is that big-headed?
“I don’t really care if it is because I know I’m doing a good job. Everybody’s got to do well out of this deal, it has got to work for everyone, and I hope it’s Sky because they deserve to keep it because of the work they put on. But, respect. Just give us respect and we’ll be fine. We’ll be fine and we’ll deliver value on a global scale you’ve not seen before.”
