A Dangerous Dutch Duo! Van Gerwen teams up with Van Veen for the World Cup
The Netherlands has unveiled a blockbuster partnership for the upcoming World Cup of Darts, confirming that three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen will join forces with rising star Gian van Veen.
The new-look Dutch pairing, dubbed immediately by fans as the “Dangerous Dutch Duo,” replaces the long-standing partnership of Van Gerwen and veteran Dirk van Duijvenbode, who has been sidelined due to injury and a dip in form.
Van Gerwen, currently ranked World No. 2, has endured a mixed 2025 season but remains the undisputed leader of Dutch darts. However, his decision to select the 22-year-old Van Veen—who has already broken into the world’s top 16—signals a changing of the guard.
“Gian is the future of Dutch darts, and that future is now,” Van Gerwen said at the official press conference. “I’ve watched him closely. He has no fear, a powerful scoring game, and the right mentality. Together, we can bring the World Cup trophy back to the Netherlands.”
For Van Veen, the call-up represents the biggest opportunity of his young career. Known for his silky action and heavy-scoring visits, the youngster has drawn comparisons to a young Van Gerwen himself.
“It’s a dream,” admitted Van Veen. “Michael is my idol and now my teammate. I know people will expect a lot from us, but pressure is a privilege. We are a dangerous duo—and we plan to prove it.”
The Dutch team has won the World Cup four times, most recently in 2018 when Van Gerwen partnered with Raymond van Barneveld. However, recent campaigns have ended in disappointment, including a shock early exit last year.
Darts pundits believe the fresh partnership could be a masterstroke. “Van Veen takes the pressure off MvG to carry every single leg,” said former World Championship semi-finalist Wayne Mardle. “If they click, they are arguably the most lethal pairing on paper. The only question is whether youth and experience will blend perfectly—or clash under the big lights.”
England, Wales, and defending champions Scotland will be watching closely. The “Dangerous Dutch Duo” officially enter the tournament as second favourites, but with Van Gerwen’s cunning and Van Veen’s fearless finishing, few would bet against them going all the way.
The World Cup of Darts kicks off next month in Frankfurt.
