Alexandra Palace has secured a new five-year agreement to host the PDC World Darts Championship until 2031, ensuring the tournament remains in London. The playing arena will move to the Great Hall starting from the 2026/27 season, increasing capacity to accommodate over 5,000 supporters per session.
Since 2007, Alexandra Palace has been the esteemed venue for the World Darts Championship, a partnership that has now been extended until at least 2031, according to PDC chief executive Matt Porter. The iconic Christmas setting at Ally Pally has become synonymous with the tournament, offering a unique atmosphere that is incomparable in the world of sports.
The decision to move the event to the Great Hall was made after resolving previous obstacles, marking a significant milestone for the sport, says Porter. Emma Dagnes OBE, the chief executive of Alexandra Palace, emphasized the impact of events like the World Darts Championship, highlighting their role in generating crucial revenue to support various cultural and learning programs.
The current capacity for the festive event stands at 3,300 supporters, but the move to the Great Hall will allow for a larger audience. The agreement also includes continued support for Alexandra Palace’s Creative Learning Programme by the Matchroom Charitable Foundation, with a commitment of £300,000 over three years for initiatives benefiting people living with dementia, schools, and young creatives.
Ahead of the upcoming event where Luke Littler will defend his title, it was revealed that the World Series will venture to Saudi Arabia for the first time in January. This expansion has sparked debates, with Littler expressing his preference for keeping the Championships at Ally Pally.
The World Darts Championship kicks off on December 11, offering fans the chance to watch every match live exclusively with Sky’s Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle.
