BREAKING: World Darts Championship extends Ally Pally residency until 2031; expanded Great Hall to host from 2027, allowing 70K extra spectators
Alexandra Palace to Host World Darts Championship Until 2031: Expanded Venue, Growing Popularity
Alarmingly Addictive: Darts’ Billion-Dollar Event Secures Long-Term Contract
The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) has signed a new five-year contract, securing the World Darts Championship (WDC) at Alexandra Palace (Ally Pally) in London until at least 2031. This news will no doubt have darts enthusiasts worldwide cheering as they gear up for another electrifying tournament.
Demand Soars as Darts Enjoys Global Surge
The WDC’s popularity has skyrocketed in recent years, with the 2025 edition welcoming a staggering 125,000 fans. The event’sChristmas iglesia was topped off with an unforgettable moment when 18-year-old Luke Littler became the youngest world champion, thrashing Michael van Gerwen.
Ally Pally: Darts’ Spiritual Home
Alexandra Palace has become synonymous with the World Darts Championship, thanks to its electric atmosphere and historical significance. PDCeo Matt Porter likens it to “Ally Pally at Christmas” – an unmissable sporting spectacle.
Sorry, No More Standing Room Only: Venue Expansion Brings More Tickets
The venue’s larger Great Hall will come into play from 2027, allowing an extra 70,000 spectators to attend – 70% more than the current capacity. This expansion comes as no surprise, given the increasing demand for tickets and the sport’s growing popularity.
The World Darts Championship has grown by 67% in fan attendance since 2010, reflecting the sport’s massive growth in popularity.
World Darts Championship: By the Numbers
- 1,500 – approximate number of darts throws in a match
- 18 – age of the youngest world champion, Luke Littler
- 125,000 – fans who attended the 2025 World Darts Championship
- 2031 – year the World Darts Championship is set to remain at Alexandra Palace
As darts continues to capture the world’s imagination, one thing is clear: the future looks bullseye-ific for the sport and its fans.
FAQs: Your Burning Darts Questions Answered
- When does the next World Darts Championship start? The 2026 WDC begins on 11 December.
- How many people can attend the WDC from 2027? 225,000 spectators will be able to watch the event live from then on.
- Can I catch World Darts Championship highlights on TV? Yes – the tournament is broadcast live on various channels worldwide.
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