World Matchplay 2026 darts tournament kicks off in Blackpool

The Professional Darts Corporation's World Matchplay returns from 18 to 26 July 2026 at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool. The event features the 32 best players – the top 16 from the PDC Order of Merit and the next 16 from the ProTour Order of Merit – competing over a week of high‑level darts.

Opening night includes the debut of Dutch qualifier Niels Zonneveld against Stephen Bunting, while the tournament opener pits Josh Rock against Luke Woodhouse. England's Luke Littler, 2025 champion, will defend his title later in the evening against Germany's debutant Niko Springer. Winners of the first‑round matches will advance to face the remaining top contenders in the second round.