The winner of the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship will earn a life-changing and historic £1 million top prize, it has been confirmed. This staggering sum represents a doubling of the money Luke Littler secured for his victory just twelve months ago.
Record-Breaking Prize Pool at Ally Pally
This year's tournament at London's Alexandra Palace features a total prize fund of £5 million, a new benchmark for the sport. All 128 competitors are guaranteed to leave with a minimum of £15,000 for their participation in the first round.
The financial rewards escalate sharply as players progress. Reaching the quarter-finals ensures a six-figure sum of at least £100,000. The two beaten semi-finalists will each collect £200,000, while the runner-up on the night of the final will take home a colossal £400,000.
Littler Aims to Defend Crown Amidst Dominant Year
The overwhelming favourite to lift the Sid Waddell Trophy and claim that £1 million cheque is the reigning champion, Luke Littler. The 18-year-old phenomenon returns to Ally Pally not only as the defending world champion but also as the world number one.
Littler's status as the man to beat follows a breathtakingly dominant year where he has swept almost all before him. His 2025 haul includes prestigious titles such as the UK Open, World Matchplay, Grand Prix, Grand Slam of Darts, and the Players Championship.
His aura of invincibility is drawing comparisons to legends like Phil Taylor and Michael van Gerwen, who often felt they had psychologically defeated opponents before a dart was thrown. When asked if his now-iconic walk-on song "Greenlight" gives him a mental edge, Littler remained focused.
"I don’t know about a head start, but it’s just a game of darts," Littler said. "Do people crumble when they hear Greenlight? That’s what they have in their head. They can decide that. I’ve still got darts to play, and there’s a World Championship here."
2026 World Darts Championship Prize Money Breakdown
The full prize money structure for the tournament is as follows:
- Winner: £1,000,000
- Runner-up: £400,000
- Semi-finalists: £200,000
- Quarter-finalists: £100,000
- Fourth round: £60,000
- Third round: £35,000
- Second round: £25,000
- First round: £15,000
The championship will reach its climax with the final scheduled for Saturday, 3 January 2026, at Alexandra Palace in London. All eyes will be on whether Luke Littler can complete a remarkable defence and secure the biggest single prize in darts history.
