PDC Prepares for Crucial Discussions on Ally Pally Amid Ongoing World Darts Championship Speculation

The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) is actively engaging in discussions about the future of the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace. Matthew Porter, the chief executive of the PDC, is focusing on how to expand the sport while addressing concerns about the venue’s capacity and growth potential.

PDC’s Vision for the Future

Alexandra Palace has been the home of the World Darts Championship since 2008, when it moved from the Circus Tavern in Essex. This relocation was necessary due to the increasing popularity of the sport, which exceeded the Circus Tavern’s capacity of approximately 900 spectators.

Porter emphasized the importance of collaboration with Alexandra Palace to accommodate the championship’s anticipated growth. He stated, “It’s the pinnacle of our calendar, and we’ve got a responsibility to grow the sport as much as we can.” The upcoming 2026 World Championship is scheduled to take place at Alexandra Palace from December 11 to January 3.

Capacity Concerns and Future Outlook

Despite its iconic status, some stakeholders express concerns regarding Alexandra Palace’s 3,200-seat capacity. As demand for tickets continues to soar, selling out 90,000 tickets in just 15 minutes for this year’s championship underlines the growing interest in darts.

• The 2026 World Championship will be held at Alexandra Palace’s West Hall.
• Porter plans to expand the tournament from 96 to 128 players.
• Additional sessions will increase ticket availability by around 25,000.

Star Players Influencing the Sport

Rising stars like Luke Littler, the 2025 World Champion, are capturing the attention of new fans. At just 18 years old, Littler aims to defend his title, having achieved a remarkable average of 102.73 during his previous championship match.

Other players, such as Luke Humphries, have voiced their support for keeping the championship at its current venue. Humphries remarked on the high demand for tickets, noting over a million fans desire access to the event, indicating a significant supply-demand imbalance.

Potential Venue Expansion

The pressing question now is whether the PDC needs to consider larger venues as they continue to sell out events rapidly. Barry Hearn, a former chair of the PDC, highlighted the need for growth, saying, “If you ever get complacent, you go backwards.”

As darts evolves into a global sport, the PDC is also focused on changing perceptions of modern darts. By identifying new markets and enhancing the sport’s image, the organization is poised for continued growth in the future.

Overall, the PDC’s strategic discussions regarding Alexandra Palace underscore the ongoing challenges and opportunities within the world of professional darts.