The pinnacle of professional darts is set to witness an unprecedented payday in the new year, with the champion of the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship securing a life-changing £1 million in prize money.
Record-Breaking Prize Fund Unveiled
This staggering sum represents a monumental leap for the sport, doubling the £500,000 that reigning champion Luke Littler claimed for his victory in the previous tournament. The total prize pool for the 2026 championship at Alexandra Palace has been elevated to an impressive £5 million, which will be shared among the 128 competitors who enter the prestigious event.
Organisers have ensured that participation alone is highly rewarding. Every player who steps up to the oche is guaranteed to take home a minimum of £15,000. The financial rewards escalate sharply as the tournament progresses, with quarter-finalists securing £100,000 each. The player who finishes as runner-up on the famous stage will receive a substantial consolation of £400,000.
Littler Aims to Defend Title and Top Spot
All eyes are firmly on the current title holder, Luke Littler, who enters the competition as the overwhelming favourite. The world number one has dominated the circuit over the past year, adding multiple major titles to his name and solidifying his status as the man to beat.
Littler will face immense pressure not only to retain the Sid Waddell Trophy but also to claim the historic seven-figure winner's cheque, a testament to the sport's booming commercial success and global audience.
Final Showdown Date Confirmed
The marathon tournament will reach its thrilling conclusion on Saturday, 3 January 2026. The final promises to be a spectacular showcase, broadcast live to millions of fans worldwide, where one player will etch their name into darts history and become the first to win the new £1 million top prize.
This significant increase in prize money underscores the phenomenal growth of professional darts, attracting greater sponsorship and television viewership. It elevates the World Championship's status further, ensuring the world's best players compete for one of the most lucrative prizes in world sport.
