The 2026 Winmau World Masters begins on Thursday evening, with a 32-player field battling for one of darts’ most prestigious titles across four days of action from January 29 to February 1 at Arena MK in Milton Keynes.

The top 24 players from the PDC Werner Rankings Ladder have already secured automatic qualification, with the final eight places filled via Wednesday’s fiercely contested Preliminary Rounds. Round one will be staged across Thursday and Friday, as world number two Luke Humphries looks to defend his crown.

Humphries edged Jonny Clayton in a dramatic deciding-set contest last year and will launch his title defence on Friday against two-time runner-up Dave Chisnall. Clayton, however, headlines Thursday’s opening night in a standout clash against Dutch qualifier Wessel Nijman.

“This is a great tournament, because it’s completely different. It’s a new challenge,” said Clayton.
“I really enjoyed playing here last year, and I’m looking forward to the start of the new season. Hopefully it will be something special.
“I would love to pick a few more trophies up. I’m back, I’m hungry and I’m playing well, so I’m excited for this year.”

World Championship runner-up Gian van Veen opens his campaign against Ryan Joyce, while Michael van Gerwen faces Damon Heta and Gary Anderson meets Niels Zonneveld. Gerwyn Price takes on James Hurrell, with James Wade and Madars Razma also squaring off.

World Champion Luke Littler enters the fray on Friday against Mike De Decker, as Stephen Bunting faces Jeffrey de Graaf and Ryan Searle clashes with Rob Cross.

“This format is built for comebacks. There were some great games last year, and it’s a really exciting tournament for the viewers,” said Searle.
“It’s cut-throat for sure… so I’m expecting a really tough game.”

The tournament concludes with Finals Day on Sunday, where the champion will pocket £100,000.

Source: PDC.TV