LONDON, UK — December 24, 2025 — The 2025/26 Paddy Power World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace has paused play for the traditional mid-tournament holiday break, giving players and officials a well-earned rest over the festive period before competition resumes this weekend. The Sun
The World Darts Championship — one of the sport’s most prestigious events — began on December 11, 2025, drawing a record 128-player field to London’s iconic venue in pursuit of the coveted Sid Waddell Trophy and a £1 million first-prize. Wikipedia
🎯 Holiday Break in Championship Schedule
After intense opening rounds played from December 11 through December 23, the event entered a scheduled three-day pause to coincide with Christmas Eve (Dec 24), Christmas Day (Dec 25) and Boxing Day (Dec 26). This break is a long-standing tradition that allows athletes, staff and fans to enjoy the holiday season. The Sun
Competition is set to resume on Saturday, December 27, with the third round beginning in the afternoon, followed by further rounds leading up to the New Year’s climax. The tournament continues through multiple stages before its grand final on January 3, 2026. The Sun
🏆 Key Players and Tournament Highlights
Among the tournament’s headline competitors are reigning World Champion Luke Littler, who advanced confidently into the latter stages before the break, and seasoned stars like Michael van Gerwen and Luke Humphries, as they battle for darting glory. Sky Sports
Littler secured his place in the last 32 with a straight-sets victory prior to the holiday pause and will be one to watch when matches resume. uk.sports.yahoo.com
The event has already seen several notable upsets and dramatic moments, including the early elimination of higher-seeded players and entertaining performances from qualifiers and emerging talents. Talksport
🎯 Record Growth and Global Interest
The 2025/26 edition reflects the ongoing global surge in darts popularity. The expansion to 128 participants — up from previous years — and a £5 million total prize fund underscores the sport’s growing stature and international appeal. Wikipedia
The championship continues to captivate fans worldwide, with matches broadcast on major networks and streamed online across multiple platforms.
📅 Looking Ahead
When play resumes after the Christmas break, spectators can anticipate thrilling third-round matches followed by intensified battles through December 28–30. Quarter-finals, semi-finals and the final will take place in the first days of January, culminating in the crowning of the 2026 world champion on January 3. Sky Sports
The World Darts Championship remains a highlight of the international sporting calendar, blending high skill, passionate crowd energy and a festive atmosphere that draws fans from across the globe.
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