A return for Vincent van der Voort at the World Darts Championship is not on the cards for now. The former professional has decided not to enter the qualifying tournament for Dutch and Belgian players on Saturday, 14.11.2026. That puts an end to speculation about a possible comeback for the 50-year-old Dutchman.

Van der Voort has not played on the professional circuit for the past two years, but in recent weeks he had hinted that he had not ruled out trying to qualify for the World Championship. He has now made his final decision. “I’m not going to do it. That’s 100 per cent certain,” Van der Voort said in the latest episode of the Darts Draait Door podcast.

Physical issues prove decisive

The former World Championship quarter-finalist has several reasons for sitting out the qualifier. He has work commitments with Viaplay, but his physical condition is the main factor.

Van der Voort is not so much concerned about his level over a single match. In his view, the real question is whether he can maintain his performance throughout a full day of competition and claim the coveted World Championship spot.

Vincent van der Voort is passing up the chance to qualify for the World Darts Championship

“It’s not going to happen. I considered it, but decided against it. You should only enter if you think you can win. I don’t think that at the moment. I can produce a good level, but I’d have to sustain it for five or six matches.”

“If it had been just one match, I would have given it a go,” he continued. “That’s not the problem. But if I have to play from nine in the morning until around six in the evening, I don’t think I can manage that now. By the middle of the day, my body starts to hurt all over, from head to toe. It’s simply not going to happen,” he said with a slightly sheepish laugh.

One World Championship spot up for grabs

Saturday’s qualifying tournament gives Dutch and Belgian players one final chance to qualify for the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace. The winner will take part in the sport’s biggest tournament of the season in December.

Van der Voort knows a great deal is at stake for those taking part. Qualifying could have major consequences for a player, both on the oche and financially. “It really is the last big chance. Everything can change if you qualify for the World Championship,” Van der Voort said.