The 2026 PDC Challenge Tour has burst into action, marking the start of an exciting season for aspiring darts professionals. In the opening two tournaments, Tommy Lishman and Joe Hunt emerged victorious, each securing a coveted title. While British players largely dominated the early stages, some well-known names faced unexpected early exits, and Dutch player Martijn Dragt provided a glimmer of hope for his nation by reaching a semi-final.
Thrilling Start to the 2026 Challenge Tour Season
Following a record-breaking Q-School last week, the Challenge Tour continued the momentum, drawing an impressive 347 players to the oche on its opening day. Among them were 34 Dutch competitors, eager to make their mark on the professional circuit.
However, it proved to be a challenging start for most of the Dutch contingent. While Martijn Dragt delivered a standout performance by reaching the semi-finals of the second event, offering a moment to cheer for Dutch fans, only Patrick Geeraets (Last 16) and Gilbert van der Meijden (Last 32) managed to progress beyond the last 64 in either tournament.
Even some established names found the going tough. Steve Beaton’s Challenge Tour debut passed almost unnoticed, with finishes in the last 64 and last 128. Similarly, PDC Tour Card holders Steve Lennon and José de Sousa experienced little success, highlighting the fierce competition on this second-tier circuit.
Challenge Tour Event 1: Lishman Claims First PDC Title
The first quarter-final of the year showcased a strong British presence, with all eight players hailing from the United Kingdom. Derek Coulson and Jack Aldridge were particularly impressive on their way to this stage. Ultimately, it was a battle between two Tommys for the title.
Tommy Lishman, who was also a finalist on the opening day last year, demonstrated his growing prowess by defeating Tommy Morris to secure his very first PDC title. This victory marks a significant milestone in Lishman’s career.
Event 1 Quarter-Final Results:
- Derek Coulson 5-3 Nathan Potter
- Tommy Morris 5-0 Jenson Walker
- Lewis Pride 5-1 Jack Aldridge
- Tommy Lishman 5-3 Luke Smith
Event 1 Semi-Final Results:
- Tommy Morris 5-4 Derek Coulson
- Tommy Lishman 5-4 Lewis Pride
Challenge Tour Event 2: Hunt Seals Victory with a Flourish
British players continued their dominance in the second tournament, though a Spanish challenger threatened to spoil their party. José Justicia, known as ‘The Joker,’ made a remarkable run to the semi-finals, thanks to several impressive victories. In his semi-final clash, Justicia proved too strong for the Dutch hopeful Martijn Dragt, winning 5-2.
However, in the final, it was once again an Englishman who stood victorious. Joe Hunt, no stranger to success on this circuit after winning a tournament last year, delivered a commanding performance. He closed out the final with a superb 12-darter, securing his first title of the 2026 season.
Event 2 Quarter-Final Results:
- Dylan Dowling 5-4 Christopher Wickenden
- Joe Hunt 5-2 Jenson Walker
- José Justicia 5-2 Jamie Kay
- Martijn Dragt 5-2 Scott Campbell
Event 2 Semi-Final Results:
- Joe Hunt 5-1 Dylan Dowling
- José Justicia 5-2 Martijn Dragt
The opening day of the Challenge Tour has certainly set a high bar for the rest of the season, promising more thrilling darts action and the emergence of new talents.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Actueel.
