ALLY PALLY TO HOST WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP UNTIL 2031

ALEXANDRA PALACE will remain the home of the Paddy Power World Darts Championship until at least 2031.

The PDC has signed a fresh five-year agreement to extend their stay at the iconic venue.

From the 2026/27 event, the Worlds will move into Ally Pally’s Great Hall, boosting total capacity to around 180,000, an increase of more than 70,000.

Individual sessions will hold over 5,000 fans, creating the largest crowds in the event’s history.

The expansion comes as demand for World Championship tickets continues to smash records, with the December showpiece now one of the hottest tickets in global sport.

This year’s tournament runs from December 11 to January 3, with teenage sensation Luke Littler returning to defend the title he won in spectacular fashion last year.

Ally Pally has hosted the tournament since 2007, becoming the beating heart of darts’ festive boom.

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.

“Previous obstacles to using the Great Hall have now been resolved, and this move represents a landmark moment for the sport.”

Lucy Fenner, Alexandra Palace Commercial Director, commented: “We’re honoured to have hosted the Worlds since 2007 and delighted to extend our partnership with the PDC.

“Christmas simply isn’t complete without the annual trip to the darts at Ally Pally.

“Moving into the Great Hall from 2026 will take the tournament to a new level.”

Emma Dagnes OBE, Alexandra Palace Chief Executive, added: “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.”

As part of the extended agreement, the Matchroom Charitable Foundation will continue its support of Alexandra Palace’s Creative Learning programme, committing £300,000 across three years.

This funding will help provide arts sessions for people living with dementia, outdoor learning opportunities for schools, and creative industry training for young people.