Darts fans terrified for Alexandra Palace wasp after incident in World Championship match

On the opening day, teenage sensation Luke Littler was forced into evasive action as the wasp buzzed around the oche, while it later enjoyed a front-row view as Ross Smith suffered an early exit at the hands of Andreas Harrysson.

But its reign appeared to come to an abrupt end during Luke Humphries’ opening match against Ted Evetts.

Humphries, the world No 2, secured a 3–1 victory to set up a second-round meeting with 71-year-old Paul Lim.

The contest itself was largely routine, yet it was Evetts’ interaction with the wasp that stole the post-match spotlight.

As the insect landed on Evetts’ shirt near his collar, the former youth world champion calmly raised his hand, flicked it away with his middle finger and waved it off with a grin.

The 28-year-old chuckled to himself before shaking hands with Humphries, seemingly unaware that he had just committed an act that would divide the darts public.

Footage of the moment spread rapidly online, with fans quick to react.

“No way to treat a legend of the game. He’s arguably done more for the sport than Ted Evetts,” wrote one fan.

Another added: “The legend of the Ally Pally stage has well and truly gone, thank you Ted!”

A third stated: “Wins £15k. Kills a wasp. Lad.”

Others were hopeful rather than mournful, with one posting: “Ally Pally wasp redemption arc coming soon I hope.”

Those hopes may not be misplaced. The wasp, or at least one of its associates, appeared to resurface shortly afterwards during Gabriel Clemens’ 3–0 win over Alex Spellman.

Another supporter shared footage of Stephen Bunting energising the crowd during his walk-on, captioning it: “The Ally Pally wasp this year. 5/5 sessions and even survived an assassination attempt. Wrote himself into the history books here.”

The phenomenon has become a festive tradition, raising the question of why Alexandra Palace so often plays host to uninvited six-legged guests.

Opened in 1875 and protected as a Grade II listed building, the vast venue presents countless hidden spaces where a queen wasp can nest undisturbed through winter.

Its location within 196 acres of parkland, rich in wildlife, further increases the likelihood of insects seeking warmth and shelter.

Once doors are opened and stage lighting is installed, the heat and glare prove irresistible.

When 3,300 spectators arrive - rising to 5,000 next year - the sudden warmth can draw wasps out of hibernation and straight into the arena.

Venue officials say they prioritise non-intrusive measures in keeping with environmental responsibilities, though pest control may become unavoidable if safety is compromised.

The issue is not unique to darts. The same room hosts the Masters snooker each January, where similar encounters have been reported.