MVG Seeks Third European Darts Grand Prix Title, Possibly Facing O'Connor

Dutch darts star Michael van Gerwen is on the hunt for his third Elten Safety Shoes European Darts Grand Prix title in Sindelfingen, and he may face William O'Connor in the process. Van Gerwen's challenge begins against either O'Connor or Michael Unterbuchner, while Gary Anderson starts his bid for a third consecutive title against either Niko Springer or Robin Masino. The fifth European Tour event of 2026 features a 48-player field competing for the £35,000 top prize from April 17-19. Anderson, a two-time World Champion, returns to the European Tour circuit after a hiatus since February's Poland Darts Open. He will be joined by five other former European Darts Grand Prix winners, including Rob Cross, Peter Wright, and Kim Huybrechts. The opening round on Friday will feature 16 matches across two sessions, with notable clashes including German star Springer against his countryman Masino, who makes his big-stage debut on home soil. Former champion Ian White, who replaces Ryan Joyce in the field, will also be in action on Day One. Other high-profile matches include Scottish star Cameron Menzies against five-time world champion Raymond van Barneveld, and Australian No 1 Damon Heta against Latvia's Madars Razma. The winner of the Heta-Razma match will face top seed Gian van Veen in round two. Stream Premier League Darts and more with NOW. The Premier League Darts 2026 schedule is available, and darts fans can also tune in to the Love The Darts podcast. The competition will heat up on Saturday with the afternoon and evening sessions, featuring matches such as Mike De Decker against Ratajski or Hurtz, and Gary Anderson against Springer or Masino. The quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final will take place on Sunday. Meanwhile, the BetMGM Premier League heads to the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, where Luke Littler faces Luke Humphries, and home hero Stephen Bunting takes on Jonny Clayton. Gian van Veen faces Gerwyn Price in a crucial battle, while Michael van Gerwen hopes to make further progress towards the Play-Offs against Josh Rock. Ranking points are awarded per night, with the top four players progressing to Finals Night at The O2 in London on Thursday, May 28.