Chaos erupted at the PDC World Darts Championship after a player's unconventional tactic to combat a persistent wasp problem spectacularly backfired on stage at Alexandra Palace.
Unwelcome Buzz at Ally Pally
Since the tournament began on Thursday, 11th December 2025, players have been battling an unexpected opponent: wasps. The insects have been a constant nuisance on the famous stage, distracting competitors during crucial throws. Players like Ross Smith and Luke Humphries have attempted to simply swat or fend off the buzzing intruders, but one star decided to take more direct action.
Van der Velde's Sting Operation
Dutch contender Jurjen van der Velde, ahead of his first-round match against compatriot Danny Noppert on Tuesday, 16th December, arrived armed for battle. Determined not to let the wasps affect his performance, he brought a can of insect spray with him onto the walk-on stage at the iconic north London venue, known fondly as Ally Pally.
In a surreal scene captured by photographers, Van der Velde was pictured actively spraying the product onto his shirt and neck after his entrance, aiming to create a repellent barrier. However, the plan did not have the desired effect. Reports from the venue suggest the strong scent and perhaps the chemicals themselves became a greater distraction than the wasps, backfiring on the player and adding to the chaotic atmosphere.
Tournament Disruption and Reaction
The incident has become a major talking point of the 2026 championship, overshadowing the early round action. While the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) has yet to issue an official statement on the matter or on the ongoing wasp issue, it raises questions about player conduct and what items are permissible on the oche.
The attempted DIY pest control highlights the extent of the problem facing players at this year's tournament. With the championship running over the festive period until early January, organisers will be keen to find a solution that doesn't involve players taking matters into their own hands. The focus now returns to the darts, but the buzz in the room is undoubtedly about more than just the high-stakes competition.
