The 2026 Bahrain Darts Masters is set for an electrifying showdown! Expect fireworks as reigning champion Stephen Bunting defends his title against a formidable field. Luke Littler, fresh off his World Championship win, returns to the site of his unforgettable 2024 nine-darter, while Dutch sensation Gian van Veen makes his highly anticipated international World Series debut. With fierce rivalries, personal rematches, and the sport’s biggest names battling it out in a short-format, high-pressure tournament, this event promises non-stop drama and unpredictable outcomes from start to finish.
Littler’s Return: A World Champion Back on Hallowed Ground
Luke Littler, now a two-time World Champion at just 18, is no longer an emerging talent; he’s the sport’s main attraction. His global rise truly began in Bahrain in 2024, where he achieved a legendary nine-darter, dominated the tournament, and secured the iconic date palm trophy by defeating Michael van Gerwen.
Last year saw his title defence cut short by an exceptional Gerwyn Price, who delivered a stunning performance, including an incredible 115.31 average in their semi-final clash.
Now, Littler is back in the Middle East, eager to kick off the new season with the same winning momentum that concluded his last.
His opening match is a captivating encounter against Singaporean legend Paul Lim. This first-round tie is a clash of generations: the sport’s newest megastar against a true icon who, at 53 years older, continues to grace the big stage.
Should Littler advance, his path to the quarter-finals looks incredibly tough, with a potential showdown against Gerwyn Price or Japan’s Motomu Sakai.
Bunting’s Defence: The Bullet Aims for Back-to-Back Glory
Defending champion Stephen Bunting returns to Bahrain in phenomenal form. His confidence isn’t just from holding the trophy; he capped off an outstanding 2025 season by topping the World Series of Darts rankings.
Bunting’s consistency was evident throughout the year, highlighted by his victory at the Nordic Darts Masters and reaching finals in Den Bosch and Gliwice.
He begins his title defence against Japan’s Ryusei Azemoto.
Awaiting him in the quarter-finals could be a tough challenge against either Michael van Gerwen or Asian Tour winner Alexis Toylo. This section of the draw promises no easy routes; the champion will truly have to earn their victory.
Gian van Veen’s Grand Entrance: A Rising Star with a Point to Prove
One of the most compelling narratives this week revolves around Gian van Veen. The new Dutch number one is making his first World Series appearance outside of the Netherlands, carrying immense momentum from a sensational 2025 season.
His remarkable run to the World Championship final propelled him into the world’s top three.
His opening match against Hong Kong’s Man Lok Leung is more than just a random draw – it’s personal. Van Veen vividly remembers their encounter at Alexandra Palace a couple of years ago, where he squandered a 2-0 lead on his debut. This rematch carries a significant edge and could easily be one of the most exciting matches of the opening night.
Humphries’ Challenge and Other Key Battles
World number two Luke Humphries faces Bahrain’s Abdulla Saeed for the third consecutive year. History strongly favors Humphries, who has won both previous meetings without dropping a single leg.
However, the unique atmosphere of Bahrain nights, combined with the short, best-of-11 legs format, means a sudden surge of form from a local favorite could change everything.
If Humphries progresses, he’s set for another strong test against either Nathan Aspinall or Asian Champion Lourence Ilagan, repeating their recent World Championship clash.
Elsewhere in the draw:
- Gerwyn Price is back, aiming for another Bahrain title shot. He opens against Motomu Sakai, who charmed fans during his World Championship debut.
- Dutch number three Danny Noppert takes on Bahrain’s top home player, Basem Mahmood. This match is guaranteed to have the crowd passionately supporting their local hero.
Tournament Format Explained
The tournament follows a straightforward structure designed for intense, rapid-fire darts action.
- Round One kicks off on Thursday, setting the stage for the main event.
- Finals Day on Friday will feature the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the grand final, all in one thrilling session.
- Each match is played in a best-of-11 legs format, ensuring quick, high-stakes encounters where every throw counts.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
