As darts continues its rise from a popular pub pastime to a premier betting sport, its fan base is not only growing in traditional strongholds like the UK and the U.S., but is also expanding rapidly across the globe.
Former champions like Phil Taylor and Michael van Gerwen no longer dominate the sport. A broader pool of winners has leveled the playing field—adding unpredictability that increases its appeal.
This article explores the countries where darts betting is especially popular and explains why you should consider offering it as part of your sportsbook in 2024.
Nine-Dart Finish: Top Countries for Darts Betting
The UK hits the bullseye when it comes to darts fandom, where the sport enjoys longstanding support and widespread coverage. But growing interest in the U.S. and throughout Europe is rapidly turning darts into a global phenomenon.
1. United Kingdom
Darts has long been a beloved sport in the UK, supported by a vibrant betting scene. Home to major tournaments like the PDC World Darts Championship, the UK sees substantial betting activity during local events. According to the United Kingdom Gambling Commission, darts betting turnover has consistently increased over the past five years—reflecting solid and growing interest among bettors.
2. United States
The United States has experienced a surge in darts popularity over the past decade, driven largely by the rise of online sports betting platforms. While the American audience is relatively new to darts, fans are quickly embracing the sport’s fast-paced, high-stakes appeal. U.S. sportsbooks have reported a noticeable uptick in darts betting, particularly during major international tournaments, reflecting its growing profile among American bettors.
3. The Netherlands
Darts enjoys a devoted following in the Netherlands, with Dutch players frequently ranked among the world’s best. This has helped foster strong domestic betting interest, supported by an expanding range of darts markets on Dutch sportsbook platforms. The continued presence of national icons on the global stage further fuels this enthusiasm, boosting both bet frequency and volume.
4. Germany
Germany’s darts scene has seen rapid growth in recent years, with the country hosting several high-profile tournaments that draw both local and international attention. The sport’s rise has been accelerated by increased media coverage and the emergence of German talent in global competitions. Sportsbooks in Germany have reported double-digit growth in darts wagers, underscoring the sport’s widespread appeal.
5. Australia
Australia’s sports betting market is currently one of the most vibrant in the world, and darts is rapidly carving out a niche alongside traditional favorites like rugby and cricket. The rise in televised tournaments and local competitions has elevated the sport's profile, with Australian betting platforms now offering extensive markets on both domestic and international events—highlighting growing enthusiasm for darts betting down under.
6. Belgium
Belgium is another European country quickly emerging as a hotspot for darts, fueled by passionate local participation and viewership. As in other European markets, Belgium's rising interest is tied to an increasing number of tournaments and the strong performances of Belgian players on the global stage. According to recent market analyses, Belgian bettors are placing more wagers on darts year over year—reflecting a steady rise in engagement.
7. Sweden
Sweden is a relative newcomer to darts, but interest has surged in recent years, reflecting broader Nordic enthusiasm for niche sports betting markets. Swedish sportsbooks have expanded their darts offerings to capitalize on this trend. Growth is supported by local betting data showing a consistent increase in darts wagers, especially during major European and World Championships. This upward trend is further fueled by strong digital coverage, making it easier for fans to follow and bet on their favorite players.
8. Ireland
Ireland has a deep-rooted connection with darts, closely mirroring the UK in its passion and popularity for the sport. Darts betting is a key part of this culture—especially during major events like the PDC World Championship. Irish players have made a notable impact on the international stage, which continues to boost both national pride and wagering interest among local bettors.
9. Denmark
Denmark is another European country that has experienced growing interest in darts in recent years—both in terms of tournament participation and fan engagement. The country has hosted several international darts competitions, which have helped increase local awareness and involvement. Additionally, darts betting is gaining momentum in Denmark, with Danish sportsbooks now offering broad markets on both domestic and global events.
Major Tournaments and Betting Opportunities
Major darts tournaments—such as the PDC World Darts Championship and the Premier League of Darts—attract global audiences and play a significant role in shaping the betting calendar due to their high-profile nature. For example, the PDC World Darts Championship regularly draws millions of viewers, with recent finals surpassing 4.8 million viewers in the U.K. alone. This massive audience highlights the sport’s rising influence.
Regional events like the Belgian Darts Open also add to the sport's diversity, offering unique betting opportunities that appeal to both local and international markets. Common betting options include match winner, highest checkout, most 180s, and live betting—allowing users to place bets in real time as the action unfolds.
The Benefits of Offering Darts Betting Options
Adding darts betting to your sportsbook platform introduces several unique features that can significantly increase user engagement and overall platform appeal.
Global appeal. Darts has a growing international fan base in key sports betting markets across Europe, Australia, and North America.
Market diversity. Darts offers a wide range of betting options—from match winners and point spreads to more specific props like highest checkout, most 180s, and more.
High event frequency. The modern darts calendar is packed with tournaments year-round, offering consistent content and betting opportunities.
Live betting opportunities. Darts matches are ideal for live betting, allowing users to place wagers in real time as the action unfolds.
In-play data integration. Real-time stats and data can be leveraged to enhance in-play betting strategies and drive more informed decisions.
Short match duration. The relatively brief length of darts matches keeps users engaged and enables quick betting turnover cycles.
Youth appeal. The sport’s growing popularity among younger audiences makes it a strong asset for attracting the next generation of bettors.
Betting predictability. Compared to team sports, darts involves fewer variables, offering a more predictable environment that appeals to both strategic and casual bettors.
Event specials and promotions. Major tournaments like the World Darts Championship present excellent opportunities for sportsbooks to offer enhanced odds, event-specific promotions, and boosted bets that increase engagement and betting activity.
Streaming and content. Platforms can integrate live streaming of darts matches, creating a seamless experience for both viewing and betting—boosting user acquisition and long-term retention.
Future Outlook for Darts Betting
Darts betting is rapidly gaining popularity, fueled by the sport’s fast-paced action and growing inclusion across major sportsbook platforms. In 2024, growth is strong in established markets like the U.K. and accelerating in emerging markets such as the U.S. and Germany, where accessible online betting options are bringing in new fans. Viewership metrics support this trend, with events like the PDC World Darts Championship reaching record-high audiences during headline matches.
These developments present valuable opportunities for iGaming operators. Leveraging advanced streaming technology and mobile-first betting tools will help meet rising demand for live, in-play wagering—technologies that align especially well with darts. In addition, integrating data analytics can boost engagement by delivering personalized betting recommendations and promotions tailored to user behavior.
By staying ahead of technological advancements, platforms can attract a broader audience, improve user retention, and ultimately boost revenue.
Take Aim and Get in the Game
iGaming software provider Altenar offers comprehensive coverage of all major sports, complete with premium data feeds from official rights holders and built-in marketing tools.
For individuals and organizations looking to add new sports to their existing offering or launch a new iGaming brand, our flexible and scalable sportsbook solutions are fully equipped for fast deployment and market entry.
