In a seismic shock at Alexandra Palace, reigning champion Luke Humphries has been eliminated from the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship. The world number one was toppled in a brilliant display by the tenth seed, Dutch sensation Gian van Veen, on the evening of Wednesday, 1 January 2026.
Van Veen's Masterclass Ends Humphries' Title Defence
The highly anticipated clash saw Gian van Veen, aged 23, produce a performance of the highest quality. From the outset, the young Dutchman controlled the tempo, leaving the 2024 champion from Newbury with precious few opportunities to settle into his rhythm. Van Veen's scoring was relentless, and his finishing clinical, as he capitalised on any dip from the favourite.
Humphries, who entered the tournament as the man to beat, struggled to find his trademark consistency against an opponent in inspired form. The result marks a premature end to his campaign to retain the Sid Waddell Trophy, a dream that was extinguished under the bright lights of Ally Pally.
A Prediction Comes True at Ally Pally
The upset will resonate particularly loudly as it appears to fulfil a prediction made by another of darts' young stars. Before the tournament, teenage phenomenon Luke Littler had foreseen a deep run for Gian van Veen, tipping the Dutch player as a major threat. This result proves Littler's assessment was astute, adding another layer of narrative to a championship already full of drama.
Van Veen's victory is not just a personal triumph but a statement to the entire darting world. Defeating the defending champion and current world number one propels him into the latter stages as a genuine contender for the title himself.
What This Means for the Championship
Humphries' exit fundamentally alters the landscape of the 2026 World Championship. The top half of the draw is now wide open, presenting a golden opportunity for the remaining contenders. For Van Veen, the path forward is clear: maintain this extraordinary level of performance.
The focus now shifts to who can capitalise on the champion's departure. The tournament at Alexandra Palace has once again proven that no player is safe, and on any given night, a superstar can be born. Gian van Veen seized his moment with both hands, delivering a performance that will be remembered as one of the standout shocks of this year's competition.
