In a major shake-up for UK sports broadcasting, Channel 5 is set to take over the free-to-air rights for major Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) and snooker events, as ITV’s longstanding coverage comes to an end after the 2025 season. This marks the conclusion of over 15 years of partnership between ITV and Matchroom, the powerhouse promoter behind both sports.

While ITV has framed its exit as a strategic shift, industry sources suggest that it may have been outbid by Channel 5. The latter is reportedly close to securing rights to key PDC tournaments including the UK Open, the Masters, the European Championship, and the World Series of Darts. The move signals Channel 5’s ambition to strengthen its sports portfolio and expand its audience reach.

From 2026, Matchroom will also assume full production responsibilities for events not shown on Sky Sports. This change means ITV’s familiar team of presenters and commentators will be replaced, with Channel 5 expected to introduce a new broadcast style. The transition is likely to affect numerous freelance professionals who have long contributed to ITV’s acclaimed sports coverage.

Channel 5, which already broadcasts the World Seniors Snooker Championship, is also in talks to pick up more snooker events. This aligns with Matchroom chairman Barry Hearn’s broader strategy to diversify the sports media landscape by leveraging both free-to-air and subscription platforms. Hearn has pointed to the need to attract younger audiences through digital channels, envisioning a future media model that mirrors streaming services like Netflix in its accessibility and content variety.

Although some fans may view the end of ITV’s coverage with disappointment, the switch to Channel 5 presents an opportunity for innovation. With fresh investment and a potential new direction in presentation and outreach, Channel 5 could breathe new life into both sports on terrestrial TV.

This development reflects broader trends in sports broadcasting, where traditional TV networks face growing competition from newer platforms and evolving viewer habits. As rights become more valuable and media consumption continues to shift, broadcasters are being forced to adapt quickly. For Channel 5, stepping into ITV’s shoes could be a game-changing moment—bringing top-tier darts and snooker to a wider audience and shaping the next chapter of UK sports television.