UNIBET, one of the largest online gambling operators in Europe with over 13.5 million customers, are to continue their support of major Professional Darts Corporation events as the title sponsors of the Unibet World Grand Prix, which will take place from October 2-8 at the Citywest Hotel in Dublin.

The Unibet World Grand Prix is arguably the most unique and unpredictable tournament in the PDC calendar, with all legs needing to both begin and end with a double and games being played in a Sets format.

First staged in 1998, the tournament – which is televised live on Sky Sports – has been played for the past 15 years at Dublin’s famous Citywest Hotel, whose Convention Centre will play host to the world’s leading darts stars from October 2-8.

This year will see Scottish star Robert Thornton defending the title he won last October, with his rivals for the title set to include 11-time champion Phil Taylor and two-time winners Michael van Gerwen and James Wade, as well as World Champion Gary Anderson.

In addition, the 32-player field also includes a guaranteed two home favourites, with leading players from Ireland & Northern Ireland qualifying alongside the world’s top 16 players and 14 other qualifiers from the PDC ProTour Order of Merit.

“The Unibet World Grand Prix is a fantastic tournament and it’s great that Unibet have moved to extend their backing of the PDC by supporting this event,” said PDC Chairman Barry Hearn.

“The Unibet World Grand Prix is a great favourite for fans, especially those in Ireland who flock to the Citywest Hotel, and is both enjoyed and dreaded by our players for the double-start format!”

Leading online bookmaker Unibet are also the title sponsors of the PDC’s European Championship, Masters and World Series of Darts Finals, with their World Grand Prix support extending their backing to a fourth televised tournament.

“We are delighted to sponsor the World Grand Prix and build on our successful sponsorships of the Masters, European Championship and World Series of Darts Finals,” said Unibet UK Marketing Manager Chris Watson.

“The unpredictable format makes this event a real spectacle for darts fans and provides a unique challenge for those placing bets. This year’s tournament promises to be one of the most exciting in the competition’s history.”

Ticket information for the Unibet World Grand Prix is currently being finalised and will be announced in due course at www.pdc.tv/tickets