The Paddy Power PDC World Darts Championship has officially released its calendar for the upcoming season, confirming that the competition will kick off on Friday, December 11 and will run through to Sunday, January 3. Organisers have also announced an unprecedented offering of 180,000 tickets, the largest allocation in the event’s history, reflecting the growing popularity of the sport and the desire to accommodate a broader fan base. A landmark change for this edition of the championship is the venue shift to the Great Hall of Alexandra Palace.
This will be the first time the tournament’s final stages are staged in this iconic space, which boasts a seating capacity of more than 5,200 spectators—significantly higher than the previous limit of roughly 3,200. The larger arena not only promises a more electric atmosphere for players and fans alike but also allows a greater number of supporters to experience the drama of world‑class darts live. Among the storylines generating buzz is the quest of 19‑year‑old prodigy Luke Littler, who entered the previous tournament as the defending champion after a dominant victory over Gian van Veen in a one‑sided final. Littler’s résumé is already impressive: he has captured the World Masters, the UK Open, the World Cup, the World Matchplay, and the Premier League titles in 2026.
With a record of 19 matches played, 18 won, an average of 100+ per match, 15 centuries, 83 sets won against 27 lost, and a staggering 196 maximum 180s, he is poised to chase a third consecutive world title and cement his status as a generational talent. Ticket distribution for the championship will also undergo a revolutionary overhaul.
For the first time, the allocation process will mirror the Wimbledon tennis tournament’s ballot system, operating in two distinct phases to ensure fairness and give dedicated fans a better chance of securing seats. Members of the Professional Darts Corporation’s television (PDCTV) subscription service will enjoy a privileged priority window, allowing them early access to the ballot before the general public. Following this, the PDC annual members’ ballot will open at noon on Tuesday, September 1, and will remain active until Monday, September 7.
The subsequent general ballot will commence at noon on Tuesday, September 8, closing at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, September 14.
This two‑stage approach is designed to balance the needs of loyal supporters with the enthusiasm of casual fans eager to witness the sport’s biggest stage. Broadcast coverage will continue to be a cornerstone of the event’s reach.
Sky Sports will provide live television coverage of the entire tournament, beginning with the first round, which this year will start four days earlier than in 2025 and feature a field of 128 competitors. The early start date offers fans more opportunities to watch high‑stakes matches and adds depth to the competition schedule.
In addition, the tournament will observe the traditional Christmas hiatus, pausing play from December 24 through December 27, before resuming for the final stretch that culminates after New Year’s Eve. This structure allows players a brief rest period while maintaining the festive excitement surrounding the sport.
Alexandra Palace, affectionately known as “Ally Pally,” has been synonymous with the World Darts Championship since 2007, hosting the event for over a decade and becoming a beloved venue for both players and spectators. Its historic architecture combined with modern facilities makes it an ideal setting for the drama and precision that darts demands.
Beyond the world championship, fans can also look forward to the BoyleSports World Grand Prix, where World No. 1 Luke Littler will defend his title. The Grand Prix, like the championship, will be streamed on Sky Sports, ensuring that audiences worldwide can follow every throw, checkout, and upset. For those who prefer streaming, the NOW platform will also carry live darts action along with a broad range of other top‑tier sports.
To stay updated on the latest highlights, video clips, and analysis, enthusiasts can tune into the "Love the Darts" podcast, which offers in‑depth discussions, player interviews, and behind‑the‑scenes insights. Whether you are a seasoned follower of the sport or a newcomer eager to learn the nuances of professional darts, the upcoming championship promises a blend of historic moments, emerging talent, and the electrifying atmosphere that only a venue like the Great Hall can provide. In summary, the 2026‑2027 Paddy Power PDC World Darts Championship will run from December 11 to January 3, feature a record‑breaking ticket pool, debut in the spacious Great Hall of Alexandra Palace, and introduce a Wimbledon‑style ballot system for ticket allocation. With Luke Littler aiming for a historic hat‑trick, a robust broadcast schedule on Sky Sports, and additional streaming options via NOW, the tournament is set to deliver an unforgettable experience for darts fans around the globe.