2026 World Matchplay Darts tournament gathers 32 players in Blackpool

The 2026 World Matchplay darts tournament will be held in Blackpool, England, featuring 32 professional players competing from July 7 onward. The single‑elimination event offers a top prize of £225,000, with matches played in a best‑of‑19‑leg format that can extend to a sudden‑death 25th leg.

First‑round fixtures include Luke Humphries vs. Cameron Menzies, Gerwyn Price vs. Martin Schindler, Danny Noppert vs. Rob Cross and Ross Smith vs. Kevin Doets, among other pairings. The draw and schedule have been released, outlining the full bracket through the second round and beyond. The tournament is a marquee event on the darts calendar, drawing top‑ranked competitors such as Michael van Gerwen, Gary Anderson and Jonny Clayton.

Broadcast and prize‑money details were outlined in a separate preview, confirming the £225,000 winner’s purse and outlining the tournament’s format and schedule for fans and participants.