The schedule for the Paddy Power PDC World Darts Championship has been officially released, confirming that the competition will kick off on Friday, December 11, and will run through to Sunday, January 3. Organisers have announced an unprecedented offering of 180,000 tickets, reflecting the growing popularity of the sport and the desire to accommodate a larger fan base. A landmark change for this edition of the tournament is the decision to stage the event in the Great Hall of Alexandra Palace for the first time. This historic venue, often affectionately referred to as "Ally Pally," can seat more than 5,200 spectators, a substantial increase from the previous capacity limit of roughly 3,200.
The larger arena not only promises a more vibrant atmosphere but also allows more supporters to experience the drama of world‑class darts live. The defending champion, 19‑year‑old Luke Littler, entered the previous year’s final with a dominant performance, defeating Gian van Veen in a one‑sided match. Littler, who already boasts an impressive résumé that includes titles such as the World Masters, the UK Open, the World Cup, the World Matchplay, and the Premier League (all secured in 2026), is now poised to chase a third consecutive world crown. His statistical record underscores his dominance: out of 19 matches played, he has won 18, recorded 100+ averages fifteen times, claimed 83 sets while dropping only 27, and amassed 196 perfect 180s.
Ticket distribution for the championship will adopt a new system modeled after Wimbledon’s famed ballot process. This two‑stage approach is designed to give a fair chance to a wide range of fans while rewarding the most dedicated supporters. First, members of the PDCTV annual subscription will enjoy an exclusive priority window, allowing them to apply for tickets before the general public. Following this, the PDC annual members ballot opens at noon on Tuesday, September 1, and remains active until Monday, September 7.
After that window closes, the general ballot opens at noon on Tuesday, September 8, and runs until 11:59 p.m. on Monday, September 14. Fans can also look forward to a robust broadcast schedule.
The opening round will commence four days earlier than in the 2025 edition, featuring a field of 128 competitors and being shown live on Sky Sports. As usual, the tournament will observe a brief Christmas hiatus from December 24 to December 27, before resuming for the final stages and culminating after New Year’s Eve. Throughout the event, viewers will have the option to stream matches and related content via the NOW platform, which also offers a library of darts highlights and video clips.
In addition to the championship, the darts calendar will feature the BoyleSports World Grand Prix, where world number one Luke Littler will defend his title. The Grand Prix, like the World Championship, will be broadcast on Sky Sports and available for streaming on NOW, ensuring that fans can follow every throw, checkout, and upset.
Alexandra Palace has a long‑standing relationship with the sport, having hosted the World Darts Championship since 2007. Its iconic architecture and central London location make it an ideal setting for the sport’s biggest stage, and the move to the larger Great Hall is expected to enhance the spectator experience dramatically.
The venue’s capacity boost means that more fans can witness the high‑pressure moments—such as sudden‑death legs, high‑checkout finishes, and the ever‑thrilling race to 180—up close. The expanded ticket pool of 180,000 reflects not only the increased seating but also a broader range of hospitality packages, including premium seating, corporate suites, and fan zones that offer interactive experiences. Organisers have promised that the event will feature state‑of‑the‑art lighting, sound, and visual effects to create an immersive atmosphere that matches the intensity of the competition.
For those unable to attend in person, the broadcast package will include comprehensive coverage: live commentary, expert analysis, player interviews, and behind‑the‑scenes features that delve into the preparation and mindset of the world’s top darts professionals. The NOW streaming service will also provide on‑demand replays, allowing fans to revisit key moments such as Littler’s high‑average performances or the dramatic final‑set finishes.
Overall, the 2026‑27 Paddy Power PDC World Darts Championship promises to be a landmark event, combining a historic venue upgrade, a record‑breaking ticket allocation, and a fresh ballot system to ensure fairness and excitement for fans worldwide. Whether you are a seasoned follower of the sport or a newcomer drawn by the spectacle, the tournament offers a compelling blend of elite competition, fan engagement, and entertainment that will set a new standard for darts championships in the years to come.