The **Poland Darts Open 2026**, the exciting kickoff to the PDC’s European Tour season, delivered high-stakes drama and spectacular performances in Krakow. Held from February 20 to 22 at the EXPO Kraków, this inaugural event drew a field of 48 top players competing for a share of the £230,000 total prize fund—a boost reflecting the growing investment in European Tour events.
The tournament culminated in a thrilling final on Sunday night, where world champion **Luke Littler** faced off against the dangerous Dutch talent **Gian van Veen**. Littler, already a dominant force in the sport, produced a masterful display to claim the title with an 8-4 victory. He fired in seven maximum 180s and maintained an average just over 108, showcasing the precision and composure that have made him a global sensation.
Despite the loss, van Veen stole moments of the spotlight with a jaw-dropping nine-dart finish during the final—an incredible feat that highlighted his skill and kept the crowd on edge. The perfect leg came in the fourth, proving that even in defeat, he could produce magic on the oche. Littler’s composure under pressure ultimately proved decisive, securing his fifth European Tour title and marking him as the first-ever champion of the Poland Darts Open.
This victory not only added to Littler’s growing legacy but also positioned him at the top of the inaugural PDC European Tour Order of Merit following the season’s opening event.
The prize money structure rewarded excellence at every stage, ensuring even early-round participants earned meaningful rewards while the biggest payouts went to those who went deepest. Here’s the full breakdown:
– **Winner**: £35,000
– **Runner-up**: £15,000
– **Semi-finalists**: £10,000 each
– **Quarter-finalists**: £8,000 each
– **Third round losers**: £5,000 each
– **Second round losers**: £3,500 each
– **First round losers**: £2,000 each
With Littler lifting the trophy, he pocketed the £35,000 top prize, boosting his already impressive earnings. Van Veen, as runner-up, collected £15,000 for his strong run, which included notable wins leading up to the final. Semi-finalists each took home £10,000, while those reaching the quarter-finals earned £8,000—solid returns for strong showings in a competitive field.
The event featured intense battles throughout. Littler’s path included commanding performances, such as a 7-3 semi-final win over Chris Dobey, while van Veen overcame challenges to reach the decider, including a victory that set up this high-profile clash. Other big names like Luke Humphries, who hit a 170 checkout earlier in the tournament, and players such as Michael Smith and Stephen Bunting added star power and excitement.
As the first European Tour stop of 2026, the Poland Darts Open set a high bar for the year ahead. The increased prize fund underscores the PDC’s commitment to elevating these events, providing players with greater financial incentives and drawing more attention to the continental circuit. For fans, it was a weekend of unforgettable darts—perfect legs, high averages, and a young superstar reaffirming his place at the pinnacle.
Littler’s triumph not only nets him a substantial payday but also builds momentum heading into upcoming competitions, including the Premier League. Meanwhile, van Veen’s nine-darter serves as a reminder of the talent waiting to challenge him. In a sport where precision and pressure define success, this tournament showcased both in abundance, leaving darts enthusiasts eager for what’s next.
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