Two of darts' most recognisable figures will bow out together when the 2025/26 World Championship reaches its conclusion on January 3.
Master of Ceremonies John McDonald and referee George Noble have both announced they'll retire after the final at Alexandra Palace.
It's the end of an era for the PDC, with both men having served since 2007. McDonald's distinctive voice has introduced players at tournaments worldwide, whilst Noble has officiated at the sport's biggest matches.
Their decision to step down at darts' most prestigious event marks nearly two decades of dedication to the professional game.
Infamous Master of Ceremonies John McDonald announced he will be leaving the PDC after 18 years of service
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McDonald brings a fascinating background to his role. The 65-year-old Londoner served with the Parachute Regiment before working as a news photographer.
He found his calling as a sports MC through boxing and went on to cover snooker and pool over three decades.
He took over from Phil Jones in 2007, though he'd already worked on The Showdown in 2004 and the Premier League.
Referee Goerge Noble has worked at the PDC since 2007 since his switch from the BDO
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"I've spent two decades now working with the PDC and loved every moment, but the time is right for me to hang up my microphone," McDonald said.
"The Paddy Power World Darts Championship final will be the perfect place for me to end, as we celebrate the culmination of the biggest-ever event in the sport.
"I'm so proud to have been a part of the PDC's journey during my time as Master of Ceremonies, and I'll look forward to my remaining events on stage."
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Noble's career in darts spans more than thirty years. He led the BDO's refereeing team before joining the PDC in 2007, where he's become one of the sport's most respected officials.
His achievements include officiating at over 300 major events globally and 20 World Championships.
In the 2010 Premier League final, he made history as the first referee to call two nine-dart finishes in a single match.
The pair will bow out in the 2026 World Championships where Luke Littler will be hoping to defend his title
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"I've had a brilliant career in over three decades and spent my whole life in the sport, but the time is right for me to retire from refereeing," Noble said.
"I'll still be involved in darts away from refereeing, but this will give me the chance to spend more time with my family in future.
"I'd like to thank the PDC for the opportunity which I was given back in 2007 - the sport has given me so many wonderful memories and opened up so many doors for me throughout my life."
End of an era 🎤😢
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) October 15, 2025
PDC legends John McDonald and George Noble will hang up their microphones after the 2025/26 World Championship.
🗞️ https://t.co/iMjkRFdPDr pic.twitter.com/OGG4MdcI0B
There's a strong possibility the PDC will honour Noble by having him referee the 2026 final, similar to Russ Bray's farewell in January 2024.
PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter paid tribute to both men: "John and George have been two huge pieces in the PDC jigsaw over the last 20 years," he said.
"John’s iconic voice and delivery, and George’s faultless refereeing have made them an integral part of our events all around the world and they are popular figures wherever we have taken events.
“We are grateful to them enormously for their contributions, not just to the PDC but to darts in general, and we wish them every success and happiness for the future they leave as our friends with sincere thanks and best wishes."