The partnership between five-time world champion Raymond van Barneveld and his manager Ben de Kok has been terminated again, a move that former professional Vincent van der Voort warns could have major consequences for Van Barneveld's future. Van der Voort, who heard the news directly from De Kok, reacted on the podcast Darts Draait Door, expressing concern over the timing of the split. He noted that this was the third time the two had teamed up after earlier splits, but the chance of reconciliation seems slim this time, as the situation creates energy-draining hassle.
Van der Voort highlighted the financial uncertainty complicating matters, explaining that a manager in darts often invests in travel, hotels, and support costs upfront, which must be recouped through prize money. With Van Barneveld going through a difficult spell on the oche—evidenced by a first-round defeat to Boris Krcmar at the Euro Tour in Belgium last week—Van der Voort questioned his marketability: "What do you have to offer right now as Raymond? He's not really selling himself. If you step in as a manager, it's a disguised investment. Do the math on what he has to earn to be able to pay someone like that. It's a tricky situation."
Meanwhile, other avenues are being explored to help Van Barneveld, with former top footballer Rafael van der Vaart offering assistance on physical and mental fronts. Van der Voort revealed that an initial proposal has been made from their side, focusing on getting fit, but details remain unclear pending Van Barneveld's public announcement. Van der Voort also observed Van Barneveld's struggles firsthand in Belgium, describing his demeanor as "nothing, like a wounded animal" and noting it's a recurring story that isn't working.
