Sports
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PDC Icons John McDonald & George Noble Exit
There's a palpable sense of change brewing in the world of darts, and it’s tied to two very familiar voices and figures. It's hard to imagine a major darts event without them, isn't it? We're talking about John McDonald, the Master of Ceremonies, and George Noble, the referee. As reported by Professional Darts Corporation, both icons will be stepping away from the PDC circuit following the 2025/26 Paddy Power World Darts Championship.
John McDonald, with his distinctive style, has been a full-time presence for the PDC since 2007, but his involvement goes back even further. Before gracing the darting stage, he had a fascinating past, including time in the Parachute Regiment and as a news photographer. He also honed his MC skills in boxing and covered other sports like snooker and pool over the years. His voice has become synonymous with the build-up to those thrilling matches, a crucial part of the atmosphere that makes events like the Grand Slam of Darts so electric. As he put it, the World Darts Championship final feels like the perfect place to end his tenure, celebrating what he calls the biggest-ever event in the sport.
Sharing the spotlight in this farewell is George Noble, a referee who has been a steady presence for nearly two decades on the PDC circuit. He actually led the refereeing ranks for the BDO before that, bringing a wealth of experience to the oche. It's a testament to their dedication that they've been such integral parts of the PDC for so long. PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter acknowledged their significant contributions, calling them "two huge pieces in the PDC jigsaw" and praising John's "iconic voice and delivery" and George's "faultless refereeing."
It's natural to feel a touch of melancholy when such consistent figures decide to move on. They’ve witnessed and been a part of countless memorable moments in darts history, and as John mentioned, he's looking forward to his remaining events. George, on the other hand, is looking forward to spending more time with his family, a sentiment many can understand. It makes you wonder what the future holds for these beloved personalities beyond the dartboard. Will we see them popping up at other sporting events, or will they simply enjoy a well-deserved retirement? It's certainly the end of an era.
John McDonald, with his distinctive style, has been a full-time presence for the PDC since 2007, but his involvement goes back even further. Before gracing the darting stage, he had a fascinating past, including time in the Parachute Regiment and as a news photographer. He also honed his MC skills in boxing and covered other sports like snooker and pool over the years. His voice has become synonymous with the build-up to those thrilling matches, a crucial part of the atmosphere that makes events like the Grand Slam of Darts so electric. As he put it, the World Darts Championship final feels like the perfect place to end his tenure, celebrating what he calls the biggest-ever event in the sport.
Sharing the spotlight in this farewell is George Noble, a referee who has been a steady presence for nearly two decades on the PDC circuit. He actually led the refereeing ranks for the BDO before that, bringing a wealth of experience to the oche. It's a testament to their dedication that they've been such integral parts of the PDC for so long. PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter acknowledged their significant contributions, calling them "two huge pieces in the PDC jigsaw" and praising John's "iconic voice and delivery" and George's "faultless refereeing."
It's natural to feel a touch of melancholy when such consistent figures decide to move on. They’ve witnessed and been a part of countless memorable moments in darts history, and as John mentioned, he's looking forward to his remaining events. George, on the other hand, is looking forward to spending more time with his family, a sentiment many can understand. It makes you wonder what the future holds for these beloved personalities beyond the dartboard. Will we see them popping up at other sporting events, or will they simply enjoy a well-deserved retirement? It's certainly the end of an era.
