Far from crowded bars with a hoppy atmosphere, darts are seeking recognition in France. If across the Channel the darts have been popular for years, the facts are quite different in France.
“Few people realize that darts can be a sport in its own right here. Because the image of a hobby or a bar activity sticks a little to the skin of the discipline. And yet a good number of tournaments are organized in sports halls or community halls. Our sport deserves to be recognized as such,” explains Thibault Tricole, French N.1 from the top of his 74e place in the world rankings.
The “darts phenomenon” is gradually taking hold
The Ministry of Sports has certainly not yet added darts to its panel, but they can already count on growing popularity in France. The world championships which were held at the legendary Alexandra Palace in London from December 15, 2024 to January 3, 2025 are concrete proof of this. On the L’Equipe channel, which broadcast the competition live, 16 million viewers followed this annual event which saw the young English phenomenon Luke Littler, only 17 years old, triumph.
And the performances of the best players on the planet have sparked many reactions. Like Olympique de Marseille striker Neal Maupay, who celebrated his goal against Le Havre (5-1) last Sunday by miming a dart throw. “You have to watch, there is a good atmosphere,” the former Brighton player even declared after the match, filled with passion for the darts during his visit to England.
This content is blocked because you have not accepted cookies and other trackers.
By clicking on “I accept”cookies and other trackers will be placed and you will be able to view the contents (more information).
By clicking on “I accept all cookies”you authorize the storage of cookies and other trackers for the storage of your data on our sites and applications for personalization and advertising targeting purposes.
You can withdraw your consent at any time by consulting our data protection policy.
Manage my choices
I accept
I accept all cookies
Two professionals in France
Within the French biathlon team, darts have also become part of the athletes’ routine. After their hat-trick in the Oberhof sprint on Friday, Quentin Fillon Maillet, Fabien Claude and Emilien Jacquelin revealed their new favorite activity once the skis and rifle were put away. “The new target has been in use since yesterday. We wonder if we should use 22 or 23 gram darts when we don’t have the level,” Jacquelin laughed with a big smile.
Beyond these “stars who are talking about it more and more”, says Thibault Tricole, the French Federation of darts (FFD) can therefore rely on Breton as a showcase for the professional scene. “I have always seen myself as something of an ambassador for darts,” says the 35-year-old, one of two French people, along with Jacques Labre, to make a living from their sport in France. Given the scale of the “darts phenomenon” which is gripping our country, there could be many more of them on the professional circuit in the years to come.
France
