The 2026 PDC European Tour kicked off this weekend with the inaugural SUPERBET Poland Darts Open in Krakow, but the excitement took a hit before the action even began. Two of the sport’s biggest names, former world champions Gerwyn Price and Michael van Gerwen, have withdrawn from the tournament due to medical reasons, leaving fans and organizers disappointed as the circuit launches its new season.
The Poland Darts Open, running from February 20-22, marks the first event on the revamped European Tour calendar, featuring a 48-player field packed with top talent. World number one Luke Littler and defending Premier League champion Luke Humphries headline the lineup, promising high-stakes darts across the weekend. The £175,000 prize fund, including £35,000 for the winner, sets the stage for an intense battle among rising stars and established pros. However, the absence of Price and van Gerwen removes two major draws from the equation, shifting the dynamics early on.
The PDC issued a clear statement confirming the withdrawals: “Gerwyn Price and Michael van Gerwen have withdrawn from this weekend’s SUPERBET Poland Darts Open due to medical reasons.” It provided further context, explaining the timing and circumstances behind each decision. Price stepped away following his participation in Night Three of the BetMGM Premier League on Thursday, where he suffered a 6-3 defeat to Jonny Clayton. Rumors had circulated in the press room that the Welshman felt unwell during the event, and his withdrawal was attributed to medical issues arising shortly after.
Van Gerwen’s situation stems from a lingering problem that first surfaced earlier in the week. The Dutch superstar had already missed Night Three of the Premier League in Glasgow due to illness, a blow that came after strong showings—he won Night One in Newcastle and reached the final on Night Two in Antwerp. Despite hopes of recovery, he was unable to shake off the issue and officially pulled out on Friday morning. The PDC noted that van Gerwen “has been unable to recover from the medical issue that ruled him out of Premier League action in Glasgow.”
To fill the gaps in the draw, the PDC acted swiftly. Former world champion Michael Smith has replaced Price, giving the 2023 World Championship winner an opportunity to jump into the tournament. Smith will open against the winner of Joe Cullen and Krzysztof Kciuk. Meanwhile, Callan Rydz, a two-time World Championship quarter-finalist, steps in for van Gerwen, adding fresh energy to the field.
These late withdrawals come at a pivotal moment for both players. Van Gerwen entered 2026 in scintillating form, showcasing the kind of dominant performances that once made him nearly unbeatable. His back-to-back finals in the Premier League suggested he was building momentum toward another title challenge. Price, too, has been a consistent force, winning Night Two and remaining competitive despite occasional dips. Their medical setbacks highlight the physical toll of a grueling schedule that spans Premier League weeks, European Tour stops, and major championships.
For the Poland Darts Open, the tournament proceeds without two heavyweights, but the depth of the field ensures plenty of intrigue. Littler, fresh off his world championship success and current world No. 1 ranking, will be a focal point alongside Humphries, who has been praised for his consistency. Other contenders like Jonny Clayton, who recently beat Price, and players such as Josh Rock and Damon Heta could capitalize on the openings created.
Fans in Krakow and those watching from afar will miss the electric presence of Price and van Gerwen, whose rivalries and big-stage performances have defined recent years. The sport wishes both a speedy recovery—Price and van Gerwen remain integral to darts’ global appeal. As one chapter closes temporarily, the European Tour begins with a reminder of its unpredictability and resilience.
The weekend’s action will reveal whether the absences create pathways for new heroes or if the established order reasserts itself. Either way, the Poland Darts Open sets the tone for what promises to be a thrilling 2026 season on the European circuit.
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