World Darts Championship

Publication date: 21 Nov 2023

About the World Darts Championship

The PDC World Darts Championship is a darts tournament that has been held annually in London since 1994. The tournament is organized by the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). And the WilliamHill.com bookmaker organization is the championship sponsor. This tournament is the most prestigious competition in this sport. It is also known that the prize fund of the tournament is £1.5 million. The current champion is Michael Smith.

2025-26 World Darts Championship

The 2025/2026 World Darts Championship is one of the most anticipated events in the world of professional darts, bringing together the best players on the planet. Сompetition includes matches involving the strongest athletes, where each fight can become historic. The spectacle of the tournament, a special atmosphere and a high level of play make it a real holiday for darts fans around the world.

When and where will the 2025/2026 World Darts Championship be held?

The 2025/2026 World Darts Championship will start in December 2025 and will end in early January 2026.

The venue will once again be the legendary Alexandra Palace in London (England). This iconic hall has long been synonymous with world darts, gathering thousands of fans and millions of TV viewers.

Who will take part in the championship?

The tournament features the top 96 players from the qualifying rounds and the PDC World Rankings:

• The top 32 players from the PDC Order of Merit automatically receive places in the main draw and start in the first round.
• 32 qualified players from the Pro Tour Order of Merit.
• 32 players selected through regional qualifiers and special invitations, including players from Asia, Africa, America and Australia.

Expected stars include reigning champions, legends like Michael van Gerwen, Gerwyn Price, Luke Humphries and other famous players.

History of the Championship

Since 1994, there have been two versions of the World Darts Championship: BDO and PDC. The BDO World Darts Championship, which is run by the British Darts Organisation, is the older and more traditional championship. The PDC Championship, which is run by the Professional Darts Corporation, is younger and more dynamic.

Dennis Priestley, also the first three-time world champion, won the inaugural draw. Phil Taylor holds the record for the most wins. He has won the tournament 14 times.

The World Darts Championship is currently one of the world’s most watched sporting events. It is broadcast live in many countries worldwide.

Winners of the previous PDC World Darts Championships

2026-27 World Darts Championships

There is currently no information on the next World Darts event. Most likely, it will be held in December 2024 in London, as always. But what we do know is that this tournament is one of the most spectacular sporting events that is sure to attract a huge number of fans from all over the world.

Keep an eye on the dates of darts tournaments and other events in our Sporting Events Calendar.