World Darts Championship 2026 betting odds: Luke Littler the man to beat at the Ally Pally

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The PDC World Darts Championship is looming, with just three big tournaments left until the biggest event in the sport begins.

Indeed, following the conclusion of the World Grand Prix, only the European Championship, the Grand Slam and Players Championship finals remain before the traditional mid-December start of the Worlds.

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Luke Littler dismantled Luke Humphries 6-1 in the final of the Grand Prix on Sunday evening, sending out an ominous message to his rivals.

He is the undoubted favourite to retain his title at Alexandra Palace during the festive period, although there are a whole host of players aiming to end his reign as world champion.

FIRST’s partners Ladbrokes have installed the teenager as the man to beat, but who are his closest challengers?

Luke Littler – 5/4

After winning his first world title in January, many predicted Littler to eclipse the records set by the great Phil Taylor.

His first goal will be to retain his title, becoming the youngest to ever win consecutive world crowns.

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Littler added the UK Open, World Matchplay and Grand Prix titles to his ever-growing resume this year, while also reaching the final of the Premier League and World Series of Darts Finals.

It is simple: if Littler plays at his best, he will win another World Championship title.

Luke Humphries – 7/2

Despite Littler stealing the limelight, Humphries has still managed to defeat the teenager in three major finals since January 2024.

The Englishman is arguably the only player right now who can challenge Littler, although his lop-sided defeat in the Grand Prix final may have dented his confidence.

With the World Masters and Premier League crowns already won this year, Humphries has shone in spells, however, he will need to step up if he aims to win a second world title in 2026.

Gerwyn Price – 8/1

Gerwyn Price has one world title to his name, but someone of his talent certainly deserves more.

Unfortunately with Littler and Humphries leading the way, Price will have to fight harder than ever. 

He hasn’t won a major PDC title since 2022, although the Welshman has won three World Series titles and a European Tour crown since the start of 2024.

Odds of 8/1 reflect this, but a favourable draw combined with some solid opening performances could give Price the confidence to challenge the two favourites.

Josh Rock – 8/1

Six months ago, Josh Rock wasn’t the joint-third favourite to win the World Championship. His rise since then is testament to the Northern Irishman finally delivering on his potential.

Alongside Daryl Gurney, he helped his nation win a first ever World Cup, before progressing to the semi-finals of the World Matchplay a month later.

The 24-year-old then reached back-to-back European Tour finals before succumbing in the last four of the World Series Finals.

A second round exit at the Grand Prix wasn’t ideal, but with three majors before the World Championship, Rock will be looking to send out a message to his rivals.

Michael van Gerwen – 10/1

Michael van Gerwen hasn’t won a ranked television event since the 2022 Players Championship Finals.

This year has been particularly difficult. Following a loss in the World Championship final to Littler, Van Gerwen suffered early exits at the World Masters, UK Open, World Matchplay and the Grand Prix.

The Dutchman did secure a superb victory over Littler in Amsterdam to claim the World Series Finals title, however, proving that he certainly still has it.

Can Van Gerwen realistically challenge for a fourth world title? The next few weeks will be the judge of that.

Gian van Veen – 20/1

Raymond van Barneveld and Van Gerwen are the only two Dutchmen to have won a PDC World Championship.

Could Gian van Veen be the third? The youngster has immense talent and has shown remarkable improvement throughout 2025.

Indeed, he reached the quarter-finals of the UK Open and World Matchplay, while also helping the Netherlands reach the semi-finals of the World Cup.

He is trending in the right direction, no doubt about that. Having already defeated the likes of Rob Cross, Gary Anderson, Price and Littler across various events this year, the 23-year-old doesn’t appear to be afraid of anyone.

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