Get Ready for the 2026 Bahrain Darts Masters
The Bahrain Darts Masters is set to make its much-anticipated return for its fourth staging on January 15-16, 2026. This exciting event will take place at the Exhibition World, nestled within the iconic Sakhir International Circuit, famously known as the home of the F1 Bahrain Grand Prix. With a unique backdrop that blends the thrill of darts and motorsport, this tournament promises to be a thrilling spectacle for fans.
Defending Champion and Notable Participants
Defending his title is Stephen Bunting, who triumphed in the previous edition by defeating Gerwyn Price with an impressive score of 8-4. As Bunting gears up to defend his crown, Price will also be participating, sharpening his skills before heading to SA for the following week’s tournament.
Among other notable names, Luke Littler, a prior champion of the Bahrain Darts Masters, is set to compete alongside Luke Humphries. New to the World Series scene will be Gian van Veen, who will arrive as the World No. 3. For van Veen, the transition into this elite status is one he’ll need to navigate carefully as he adds both World Series and Premier League events to his 2026 calendar.
Big Names and Notable Absences
Fans can look forward to the presence of darting legends like Michael van Gerwen, who returns after skipping the 2025 edition. Danny Noppert and Nathan Aspinall will also take to the stage, bringing their respective skills and flair to the competition. However, it’s worth noting that Josh Rock and Jonny Clayton will not be participating, along with previous stalwarts like Chris Dobey and Rob Cross. This shift opens up opportunities for others and adds an element of unpredictability to the tournament.
Broadcasting Updates
In terms of broadcast arrangements, the tournament will maintain its availability in the UK on ITV4, showcasing live coverage from 5 PM to 9 PM on both days. This includes the first round on January 15 and the remaining stages on January 16.
While the broadcasting team sees some changes, Gabriella Partington will take the helm as the host. Well-acquainted with sports coverage, particularly in golf and pool, she brings a wealth of experience, alongside veterans Mark Webster and Wayne Mardle, who will contribute their insights and commentary throughout the event.
Global Coverage and Streaming Options
Fans across the globe can look forward to watching the Bahrain Darts Masters through various platforms. In the U.S. and Australia, options like Foxtel Group platforms (Foxtel and Kayo Sports) will provide comprehensive coverage alongside subscriptions to PDCTV, making it accessible to dart enthusiasts worldwide.
For those tuning in from the Netherlands, the full tournament will once again be broadcast via Viaplay. Meanwhile, in Germany, DAZN will handle the event as part of their established agreements. For dart fans in most other territories, PDCTV will be the primary viewing platform, ensuring that the action is just a click away.
TV Schedule for the Bahrain Darts Masters 2026
Here’s a quick glance at the TV guide for the event:
| Date | Round | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, January 15 | First Round | 5 PM – 9 PM |
| Friday, January 16 | Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals, and Final | 5 PM – 9 PM |
Set against a thrilling backdrop, the Bahrain Darts Masters 2026 is poised to kick off the darting year with flair and excitement, promising unforgettable moments for players and fans alike.
