Van Gerwen Aims for Third European Darts Grand Prix Title

Dutch darts sensation Michael van Gerwen is on the hunt for his third European Darts Grand Prix crown, and his journey may begin with a showdown against William O'Connor. The competition, set to take place in Sindelfingen, will feature a 48-player field vying for the top prize of £35,000 from April 17-19. Van Gerwen's opening challenge will be against either O'Connor or Michael Unterbuchner, while two-time World Champion Gary Anderson will start his bid for a third consecutive title against either Niko Springer or Robin Masino. Anderson returns to the European Tour circuit after a brief absence, last competing in February's Poland Darts Open. This event will see six former European Darts Grand Prix winners in action, including Rob Cross, Peter Wright, and Kim Huybrechts. Friday's opening round will host 16 matches across two sessions, with notable pairings including German star Springer facing his countryman Masino, who makes his big-stage debut on home soil. Other former champions like Ian White, who replaces Ryan Joyce in the field, will also be in action. High-profile clashes include Scottish star Cameron Menzies against five-time world champion Raymond van Barneveld, and Australian No 1 Damon Heta taking on Latvia's premier player Madars Razma. Stream Premier League Darts and more with NOW. The schedule for Premier League Darts 2026 is available, alongside the full darts tournament dates and schedule for 2026. Tune in to the Love The Darts podcast for more. The competition will unfold with Friday's afternoon and evening sessions, followed by Saturday's rounds, and conclude with Sunday's afternoon and evening sessions, featuring the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final. The BetMGM Premier League will also continue, with crucial nights of action, including a stop at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, where Luke Littler faces Luke Humphries, and home hero Stephen Bunting takes on Jonny Clayton. The league table will be formed based on ranking points awarded per night, with the top four players progressing to Finals Night at The O2 in London on Thursday, May 28.