Get your final World Matchplay Darts 2026 preview now
The Winter Gardens are set to be hit by some sizzling heat as the best darts players on the planet descend for the World Matchplay and you can get a full preview with our special on sale now
BLACKPOOL, ENGLAND – JULY 27: Luke Littler of England celebrates with The Phil Taylor Trophy after victory in the Final match between James Wade of England and Luke Littler of England on day nine of the 2025 Betfred World Matchplay at Winter Gardens on July 27, 2025 in Blackpool, England. (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)
Having dominated 2026, defending champion Luke Littler heads to the historic Blackpool venue as the out-and-out favourite to lift the Phil Taylor Trophy.
But plenty will give him a fight, none more so than his No.1 rival Luke Humphries, who took the title in 2024.
This special edition, Tower & the Glory, previews all the action and includes interviews with leading players, a chat with Phil Taylor, a look at the main contenders as well as a trip down memory lane to look at the best Matchplay moments.
We also look ahead to the Women’s World Matchplay as Beau Greaves looks to regain the crown she lost to Lisa Ashton last year. But all eyes will be on Littler when the action starts on July 18 after his year of domination.
The up-and-coming Gian van Veen can also be a tricky customer and Jonny Clayton is playing the darts of his life, as he showed during his impressive Premier League campaign. Ruling out three-time winner Michael van Gerwen in Blackpool would also be a mistake and there are others who could rewrite history.
But what is for sure, the action is set to be hot beside the seaside.
Click HERE to buy online and have it delivered directly to your door, or you can purchase it in participating supermarkets, high street retailers and independent newsagents in the UK from Wednesday, July 8,2026. Online postage and packaging costs apply.
