Luke Littler eyes new payday as World Championship change announced | Other | Sport
Luke Littler has backed the decision to switch the World Darts Championship to a bigger stage. The move could possibly lead to an inflated payday for the winner of the tournament. The 18-year-old star crushed Gian van Veen in this year’s final at Alexandra Palace’s West Hall. Littler won with seven consecutive sets to ultimately retain his title with ease.
After much speculation, Ally Pally will stay as the home of the iconic event until 2031 after a new five-year deal was struck. However, the Championships will move into the arena’s Great Hall from the 2026/27 event onwards after event chiefs decided a change was required to cope with the huge demand for tickets.
The Great Hall can hold 5,000 more fans than the 3,300-capacity West Hall. Littler insists the change is necessary due to the burgeoning popularity of darts.
He said: “Yeah, it’s going to be massive. It’ll be the first time this year. I’ll be on the opening night again in December to come, 11-12 months away.”
Littler, who scooped £1million for claiming this year’s event, hinted that an increase in fans could mean a boost in winnings. He added: “That’s how big it’s growing. The prize money’s gone up and now the capacity is going up. So, who knows where darts going to be in the next 10 years.”
The change will now let roughly 180,000 more people to attend the tournament over December and January. That’s a 70,000 increase on the amount of fans who came through the doors this year.
Alexandra Palace has been the home of the PDC World Darts Championship since 2007. Speaking on the changes, Matt Porter, PDC chief executive, said: “Alexandra Palace has become synonymous with the World Darts Championship, and we are thrilled to extend our partnership through to at least 2031.
“Ally Pally at Christmas is the identity of the tournament – its atmosphere is unmatched anywhere in sport. Demand for tickets has never been higher, and moving into the Great Hall from 2026/27 will allow more fans than ever to enjoy this incredible event.”
He added: “Previous obstacles to using the Great Hall have now been resolved, and this move represents a landmark moment for the sport.”
Emma Dagnes OBE, Alexandra Palace chief executive, said: “As a charity, events like the World Darts Championship have a profound impact. Not only do they create unforgettable experiences, but they generate vital revenue that supports our work across the Park and Palace, delivering cultural and learning programmes that benefit millions each year.”
