The PDC Europe Gala Series made a memorable stop in Magdeburg on Saturday evening, delivering an entertaining showcase for fans. Among the top stars on stage were Raymond van Barneveld, Gian van Veen, Chris Dobey, Ross Smith, Damon Heta, and Rob Owen.
The night exploded into life right from the start as Chris Dobey fired in a 9-darter in his first leg against Raymond van Barneveld – a perfect opening that put the Magdeburg crowd in party mood early. The moment was especially significant for caller Richard Ashdown, who revealed on X that it was the first 9-darter he has ever had the chance to call in his 25-year career as a caller, referee, master of ceremonies, and spotter.
The evening also delivered a dramatic sporting finale. In a turbulent decider, Ross Smith edged Chris Dobey 4-3, having trailed 0-3 before turning the match completely around to seal the win.
Following events in Wetzlar, Frankfurt, Leipzig, at the Nürburgring, in Neu-Ulm, and in Bamberg, the Magdeburg Darts Gala was already the seventh stop on this year’s PDC Europe gala series. While these events do not carry ranking or competitive status, many top players still use the evenings to gain stage sharpness and connect with the crowd.
PDC Europe will continue its gala tour in 2026. After the successful stop in Magdeburg, fans can look forward to events in Mannheim, Hildesheim, Bremen, Jena, Cologne, as well as a double-header in Lingen.
