Winter Darts Season 2026/27
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As the temperatures drop and the festive season approaches, darts enters its most exciting period of the year. From the elite competition of the Grand Slam of Darts and the unique challenge of the Players Championship Finals, to the tradition of Lakeside and the spectacle of the World Championship at Alexandra Palace, the winter season is packed with unmissable action.
The winter darts season is where legends are made. From Wolverhampton to Minehead, from the iconic Lakeside to the electric atmosphere of Alexandra Palace, every tournament offers a different challenge and a chance for players to cement their place in darting history.
Whether you're backing Luke Littler to continue his dominance, Luke Humphries to reclaim the biggest prize in the game, or an outsider to make a stunning run, the coming months promise world-class darts and unforgettable moments. With Luke Littler continuing to dominate headlines and a host of challengers eager to stop him, fans can expect months of drama, big finishes and memorable moments.
Grand Slam of Darts
14th-22nd November 2026 | Wolverhampton
The Grand Slam of Darts brings together the best players from across the PDC's major tournaments. Featuring group stages before the knockout rounds, it offers one of the toughest tests in professional darts.
Favourites
Luke Littler heads into the tournament as the player everyone wants to beat. His scoring power, confidence and ability to produce magic moments on the biggest stages make him the clear favourite.
Other contenders include:
- Luke Humphries – Consistently one of the highest-performing players on tour.
- Gerwyn Price – A proven major winner capable of overpowering anyone.
- Michael van Gerwen – The Dutch legend remains a threat whenever silverware is on the line.
- Gian van Veen – One of the sport's fastest-rising stars.
Prediction: Luke Littler
Players Championship Finals
27th-29th November 2026 | Minehead
The Players Championship Finals rewards consistency across the year's floor events and often produces surprise winners. Unlike many televised majors, there is no easy route through the draw.
Favourites
- Luke Humphries – One of the most reliable performers in the professional game.
- Wessel Nijman – Has enjoyed a breakthrough season and could be ready for major success.
- Chris Dobey – Continues to improve and is a genuine title contender.
- Michael van Gerwen – A former champion who loves the Minehead stage.
Prediction: Luke Humphries
Lakeside World Championship
27th November-6th December 2026 | Lakeside Country Club, Frimley Green
Few venues in darts carry the history and nostalgia of Lakeside. The famous stage continues to showcase some of the finest talent outside the PDC spotlight while maintaining one of the sport's most cherished traditions.
Favourites
- Mitchell Lawrie – One of the standout players on the WDF circuit.
- Paul Krohne – Has consistently challenged for major honours.
- Leonard Gates – The experienced American remains a crowd favourite.
- Matthew Edgar – Possesses both experience and quality on the Lakeside stage.
On the women's side, Deta Hedman will once again be among the players to watch.
Prediction: Mitchell Lawrie
The Main Event: PDC World Darts Championship
11th December 2026 - 3rd January 2027 | Alexandra Palace, London
For darting dreams, everything leads to Ally Pally.
The World Championship remains the biggest tournament in the sport, with packed crowds, huge prize money and worldwide television coverage. Every player spends the entire year building towards this moment.
The Leading Favourites
Luke Littler
The reigning world champion continues to set new standards. His relentless scoring power and remarkable composure make him the tournament favourite.
Luke Humphries
A former world champion and one of the game's most complete players. Humphries possesses the experience and temperament needed to win another world title.
Gian van Veen
The Dutchman has developed into a genuine world-class performer. Many believe a major television title is only a matter of time.
Michael van Gerwen
Three world titles and countless major trophies mean Van Gerwen can never be discounted. If he hits top form, he remains one of the most dangerous players in the field.
The Dark Horses
- Gerwyn Price
- Josh Rock
- Stephen Bunting
- Nathan Aspinall
- Chris Dobey
Prediction
It's difficult to look beyond Luke Littler. The young superstar arrives as the standout player in world darts and will be the man everyone is chasing. However, Luke Humphries remains his biggest threat, while Gian van Veen could be the player most likely to produce a breakthrough run.