The PDC World Darts Championship is on the brink of an exciting transformation, as plans to expand the tournament in 2026 are actively under consideration by the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). Currently held at the iconic Alexandra Palace in London, the Championship has grown to become one of the most anticipated events in the world of darts, drawing audiences worldwide and showcasing some of the finest talents in the sport. The proposed expansion would see the player count increase from 96 to 128, marking a significant leap in participation and broadening the competitive landscape.
Since 2018, the Championship has followed a distinctive structure with 96 players divided into 64 initial-round contenders and 32 seeded players who automatically advance to the second round. This format has introduced thrilling dynamics, giving rising stars and seasoned competitors alike a stage to test their skills. The PDC has confirmed that this format will remain in place for the 2025 Championship, with Luke Humphries set to defend his champion status in early January. Humphries, known for his consistent performances and cool composure, has earned his spot as a fan favorite, and he’ll have to fend off a strong field of contenders looking to claim the title.
The proposed 2026 expansion would change the tournament structure significantly, allowing more players to compete and offering additional opportunities for emerging talent to make their mark. A larger player pool could mean the tournament would require a longer duration, potentially necessitating adjustments in scheduling and match structuring. However, for fans and players alike, this potential increase promises a more diverse and competitive field, and the chance for new, thrilling underdog stories to emerge.
The 2024 tournament saw exciting performances from both established players and promising newcomers, setting a high bar for future competitions. The initial format featured 32 seeded players waiting to face winners from an intense first round, where 32 automatic entrants clashed with 32 qualifiers who had battled their way through earlier rounds. The competition has a history of surprising outcomes, as underdog qualifiers occasionally rise to challenge the seeds in the later rounds. In 2024, five qualifiers made it to the third round, and among them was young sensation Luke Littler, whose remarkable journey captured the attention of fans and experts alike.
Littler, in particular, epitomized the unpredictable excitement that the Championship offers. He defied expectations by taking down some of the tournament’s most formidable opponents, including 20th-seeded Andrew Gilding in the second round. From there, Littler’s impressive run continued as he bested notable names such as Matt Campbell, Raymond van Barneveld, Brendan Dolan, and Rob Cross, before finally meeting Humphries in the final. Though he ultimately fell to Humphries, Littler’s success in reaching the final round as a qualifier demonstrated the incredible talent emerging in darts today. His journey from qualifier to finalist offered a compelling storyline that fans will likely remember for years to come.
The potential for a 128-player field in 2026 could enable even more breakthrough performances from rising stars like Littler. This expansion aligns with the PDC’s broader mission of increasing accessibility and global appeal for the sport, allowing more players from various countries to showcase their skills on one of the most prestigious stages in darts. By welcoming more players, the PDC would not only enhance the Championship’s diversity but also provide a broader international representation, which could attract fans from an even wider global audience.
An expanded Championship would require strategic changes to the competition’s logistics. With more players, the event may extend over a longer period or require multiple matches in a day for some competitors, a move that could test both their endurance and tactical prowess. Additionally, it may lead to revised seeding and qualification criteria to ensure a balanced and fair progression throughout the rounds. These changes could open doors for more darting associations worldwide to collaborate with the PDC, supporting the tournament’s growth and providing a wider platform for talent across different regions.
Luke Humphries’ path to defending his title in the upcoming 2025 Championship will be closely watched, especially as he faces a roster of challengers eager to claim the crown. Humphries, a former UK Open finalist, has steadily risen through the ranks, proving his mettle against high-caliber players and gaining respect for his consistent performances in high-pressure matches. His success story and consistency have made him a role model for aspiring players, and with the proposed changes in 2026, more players will have the opportunity to emulate his journey.
The PDC World Darts Championship has long been celebrated for its festive atmosphere, especially during the holiday season when it captivates fans with its lively audiences and thrilling matches. Alexandra Palace, affectionately known as “Ally Pally,” has become synonymous with the Championship, and each year it witnesses intense drama, inspiring displays of skill, and the energy of fans from around the world. With the prospect of an expanded format in 2026, the tournament is set to become an even larger spectacle, promising to deliver more excitement, higher stakes, and potentially new champions.
As 2026 approaches, fans, players, and analysts alike will be watching closely for updates on the proposed expansion and what it might mean for the future of the sport. If the PDC’s vision comes to fruition, the World Darts Championship may become more inclusive and competitive than ever, reinforcing its position as the pinnacle of the sport and ushering in a new era of talent, excitement, and global recognition for the world of darts.