Why are England playing a darts song at the World Cup?

BBC Sport's Ask Me Anything looks at the range of goal songs being used at the 2026 World Cup, including England's choice of a darts anthem.

When Harry Kane or any England player scores at the 2026 World Cup, the stadium erupts not with a traditional football chant but with a track synonymous with darts: 'Chase the Sun' by Planet Funk. The electronic anthem, which has been the walk-on music for darts tournaments since the early 2000s, has been adopted by the England squad as their goal celebration song, sparking curiosity and debate among fans. According to BBC Sport's 'Ask Me Anything' segment, the choice was deliberate. England's team psychologist suggested the upbeat, driving rhythm could help players stay focused under pressure while creating a fun atmosphere. The song's association with darts—a sport deeply rooted in British pub culture—also resonates with a large domestic audience, bridging the gap between football and other national pastimes. However, not everyone is thrilled. Traditionalists argue that the World Cup should feature football-specific anthems like 'Three Lions' or 'God Save the King'. Social media has seen mixed reactions, with some joking that England seems to be playing darts rather than football. Yet younger fans embrace the novelty, seeing it as a sign of modern football's openness to cross-sport influences. On the pitch, England have performed solidly, advancing from the group stage with two wins and a draw. Kane and Raheem Sterling have each scored twice, and after every goal, the players mimic a dart-throwing motion as 'Chase the Sun' blares. This celebration has gone viral, with analysts noting that it boosts team morale and may even unsettle opponents. England are not alone in their unconventional choice. Hosts USA use Imagine Dragons' 'Believer', while Brazil stick with the classic 'Esquentando o Couro'. FIFA allows each team to select its own goal music, provided it meets broadcast standards. This policy has turned goal celebrations into a colorful subplot of the tournament. The darts song phenomenon reflects a broader trend of sports culture fusion. In an era of globalization, boundaries between different sports are blurring, and fans welcome fresh elements. As one commentator put it, 'Football is no longer an island; it's absorbing the best of other sports, becoming more diverse and entertaining.' Ultimately, the song's legacy will depend on England's performance. If they go far—or even win the trophy—'Chase the Sun' will become iconic. If not, it may be remembered as a quirky footnote. Either way, the 2026 World Cup has gained a talking point thanks to this unlikely pairing of football and darts.

Why are England playing a darts song at the World Cup?

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