World Darts Championship 2026: Your Complete Guide to Dates, Stars and How to Watch
Why This Year’s Championship Is Unmissable
The 2026 PDC World Darts Championship has arrived, bringing together the biggest names in darts for one of the most exciting sporting spectacles of the winter season. Hosted once again at London’s iconic Alexandra Palace, the tournament runs from 11 December 2025 through 3 January 2026. With a record-breaking £5 million total prize fund and one of the strongest fields ever assembled, this edition promises drama, upsets, and unforgettable performances. The defending champion Luke Littler returns as world number one, setting the stage for a high-pressure tournament filled with talent.
When and Where the Action Happens
The event began on December 11 and continues with daily sessions right up to the final on January 3. Afternoon and evening sessions take place throughout the tournament, allowing audiences multiple opportunities to watch their favorite players compete. Semi-finals are set for January 2nd, while the final will be played at 8pm on January 3rd. Alexandra Palace remains one of the most atmospheric sporting venues in the world, with thousands of fans creating an electric environment that elevates every match.
How to Watch the World Darts Championship
Viewers in the United Kingdom can watch the championship live in full on Sky Sports, with coverage offered across Sky Sports Darts and Sky Sports Main Event. All sessions are broadcast, including early rounds, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final. Fans with a Sky Sports subscription can also stream every match through Sky Go, making it easy to follow the action on mobile devices, tablets, or computers.
For international fans, broadcasting and streaming partners vary by region. Many territories receive full coverage through platforms such as DAZN, Viaplay, and PDCTV, which offers live streaming in regions outside the UK, Ireland, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Radio commentary from outlets such as talkSPORT provides additional coverage for fans who prefer audio updates while on the move.
The Defending Champion: Luke Littler
All eyes are on Luke Littler as he enters the tournament as the reigning world champion. At just 18 years old, Littler has quickly become one of the most formidable players in darts, combining explosive scoring power with astonishing composure under pressure. After capturing his first world title last year, he returns as the top seed and a strong favorite to lift the trophy again. His rapid rise has energized the sport and attracted a new generation of fans who have watched him dominate stages across the world.
The Biggest Contenders to Watch
Although Littler is the headline story, the field is packed with world-class players capable of challenging for the title. Luke Humphries, the second seed and former world champion, remains one of the most consistent and technically polished players on the circuit. Michael van Gerwen, a three-time world champion, continues to be a significant threat thanks to his experience, tenacity, and unmatched ability to shift momentum in tight matches.
Rising star Gian van Veen brings fresh excitement to the draw. His powerful scoring and fearless style have earned him a reputation as a future world champion in the making. Meanwhile, established contenders such as Michael Smith, Gerwyn Price, Stephen Bunting, Peter Wright, Jonny Clayton, and James Wade provide depth and unpredictability. Women’s talent Beau Greaves is also competing and has the potential to make history with a deep run.
Tournament Format and What’s at Stake
The World Darts Championship uses a set-based format. Each set consists of a race to three legs, and matches lengthen as players progress to later rounds. The format demands not only precision and skill but also stamina, focus, and strong mental resilience.
With £1 million awarded to the champion, this is the most lucrative title in darts. The high stakes, combined with the pressure of the Alexandra Palace stage, ensure that every missed double, momentum swing, and clutch checkout could change the direction of the tournament.
Why Fans Love the Festive Darts Tradition
The World Darts Championship has become a beloved part of the festive season. Many fans watch with family and friends during the Christmas holidays and New Year celebrations. The atmosphere at Ally Pally is unlike anything else in sport. Costumes, chants, singalongs, and the excitement of sold-out crowds transform every match into a shared celebration. Even casual viewers find themselves drawn in by the energy, the drama, and the unpredictability that defines darts at the highest level.
What to Expect This Year
With its mix of emerging stars, veteran champions, and passionate fans, this year’s championship is set to deliver extraordinary moments from start to finish. Whether you are tuning in for the first time or are a long-time fan of the sport, the 2026 World Darts Championship offers entertainment, precision, and sporting brilliance wrapped into a single event. As the players line up for one of the most competitive fields in recent memory, the only certainty is that this year’s winner will have to fight through an exceptionally high caliber of talent to lift the trophy.
