The Paddy Power PDC World Darts Championship has officially announced its schedule, running from Friday, December 11, through to Sunday, January 3. This year’s edition will offer a historic 180,000 tickets, the largest allocation ever for the event.
A landmark change for the 2026 tournament is the relocation of the main stage to the Great Hall of Alexandra Palace. This venue, which has been a staple of the championship since 2007, now provides seating for more than 5,200 fans, a significant increase from the previous capacity of roughly 3,200. The larger arena promises a more electric atmosphere and greater accessibility for supporters worldwide. The defending champion, 19‑year‑old Luke Littler, entered the 2025 final with a dominant performance, defeating Gian van Veen in a one‑sided match.
Littler, already a multiple‑title holder having captured the World Masters, UK Open, World Cup, World Matchplay and Premier League titles in 2026, is poised to chase a third consecutive world crown. His statistical record underscores his dominance: 19 tournaments played, 18 victories, an average of 100+ points in 15 matches, 83 sets won against 27 lost, and an impressive tally of 196 maximum 180s. Ticket distribution for this year’s championship will follow a novel, Wimbledon‑style ballot system, implemented in two distinct phases.
First, members of the PDCTV annual membership will enjoy a priority window, giving them an early chance to secure seats before the broader public ballot opens. The PDC annual members’ ballot will run from 12:00 pm on Tuesday, September 1, until 12:00 pm on Monday, September 7. Following that, the general public ballot will be open from 12:00 pm on Tuesday, September 8, closing at 11:59 pm on Monday, September 14.
This structured approach aims to balance fairness with the high demand for tickets. Fans can follow every throw of the dart via multiple platforms. Live coverage will be broadcast on Sky Sports, with the first round commencing four days earlier than in 2025 and featuring a field of 128 competitors. The schedule also incorporates the traditional Christmas break, pausing play from December 24 through December 27, before resuming for the final stages after New Year’s Eve.
Beyond the main championship, darts enthusiasts can stay connected through a variety of digital offerings. The NOW streaming service provides live darts action alongside a broad range of sports. Highlights, match replays, and exclusive video content are regularly updated on the official darts website and associated channels. Listeners can also tune into the "Love the Darts" podcast for in‑depth analysis, player interviews, and behind‑the‑scenes stories.
Looking ahead to other marquee events, the BoyleSports World Grand Prix will see World No. 1 Luke Littler defending his title.
As with the World Championship, the Grand Prix will be televised on Sky Sports, and fans can stream the competition via NOW for uninterrupted access. In summary, the 2026 Paddy Power PDC World Darts Championship promises a longer, larger, and more accessible tournament than ever before. With expanded seating in the iconic Great Hall, a record‑breaking ticket pool, a transparent ballot system, and comprehensive broadcast coverage, the event is set to deliver thrilling darts action to both the arena crowd and millions of viewers around the globe.
Whether you are a seasoned supporter or a newcomer to the sport, the upcoming weeks will showcase the very best of professional darts, culminating in a spectacular Sunday final that will be remembered for years to come.