Epic Showdown: Luke Littler vs. Gian van Veen at the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship
Tonight, the stage at Alexandra Palace will come alive as Luke Littler and Gian van Veen face off in what promises to be a thrilling final of the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship. With history on the line, both players have their own compelling narratives. Littler strives to become the first player in a decade to defend his title, while Van Veen aims to capture his maiden championship title. Fans around the world are eager for this electrifying showdown.
The Remarkable Rise of Luke Littler
At just 18 years old, Luke Littler is not just any player; he’s a darting prodigy who has dazzled fans and opponents alike throughout the tournament. As the new world No. 1, he showcased his exceptional skill in the semifinals, defeating Ryan Searle with a staggering score of 6-1. With an impressive average of 105.4 and winning 20 out of 28 legs, Littler not only dominated the match but also regained crowd support, overcoming some initial jeers during the tournament.
Performance Metrics
- Semifinal Match: Littler vs. Searle
- Score: 6-1
- Average: 105.4
- Legs Won: 20 out of 28
Gian van Veen: A Dutch Dynamo
Gian van Veen, on the other hand, comes into the final with a wealth of experience from his semifinals clash against Gary Anderson. The match was nothing short of a nail-biter, ending 6-3 in favor of Van Veen, but not without high drama—22 legs were contested, and Van Veen showcased an incredible comeback in the fifth set, overcoming a stunning average of 117.4 from Anderson. Commentator Wayne Mardle hailed Van Veen’s performance as “a set of darts from God,” and his reputation as one of the best finishers on tour sets the stage for an exciting final.
Performance Insights
- Semifinal Match: Van Veen vs. Anderson
- Score: 6-3
- Legs Contested: 22 (22-20)
- Average: 117.4 (against Anderson)
The Tactical Battle Ahead
Tonight’s match is not just about individual talent but also about contrasting styles. Littler is brimming with confidence, leveraging his youth to his advantage, while Van Veen brings a more reserved and strategic approach, having overcome personal challenges like dartitis earlier in his career. Their previous encounter in the 2023 World Youth Darts Championship, where Littler emerged victorious, adds an extra layer of anticipation—is it revenge for Van Veen or a repeat performance for Littler?
How to Watch the Final: Live Streaming Options
For fans eager to catch the action, there are multiple options available to watch Littler vs. Van Veen live, both on television and online:
United States Viewers
- NBC Sports Now is offering free-to-air coverage of the final. No subscription is required, providing an excellent opportunity to watch the match live.
United Kingdom Broadcast
- In the UK, coverage will be offered on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Darts. Monthly plans start at £35, but a Now Sports subscription is available from £14.99 for a day.
Australian Fans
- Australian viewers can tune in via Fox Sports or stream live on Kayo Sports, which starts at AU$30 per month after a free trial.
Canadian Audience
- The final will be exclusive to PDC TV, costing CA$17.99 monthly. VPN options are available for Canadians traveling abroad to ensure they do not miss the match.
International Time Zones
The final is set to begin at:
- 8 PM GMT
- 3 PM ET
- 12 PM PT
- 7 AM AEDT (Sunday, January 4 in Australia)
Mobile Streaming
Most providers now offer apps through which you can catch the match on your mobile devices. Alternatively, follow PDC’s official social media channels for real-time updates and highlights.
Prepare for a night of intense competition and thrilling darts as two of the finest players in the game go head-to-head for glory in the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship. Whether you’re rooting for Littler to defend his title or hoping for Van Veen to claim a new one, the excitement is palpable.
