The 2026 World Series of Darts Finals in Amsterdam has been hit by an unexpected twist as top players Lourence Ilagan and Alexis Toylo have been forced to withdraw. Their absence stems from unresolved Schengen visa applications, preventing them from attending a crucial prior event in China. Stepping in as their replacements are seasoned pros Daryl Gurney and Maik Kuivenhoven, ready to join a star-studded field including darts giants like Luke Littler, Michael van Gerwen, and Luke Humphries at AFAS Live from September 17-20.
Unexpected Withdrawals Reshape the Tournament
The prestigious 2026 World Series of Darts Finals will see two significant changes to its line-up. Filipino darts stars Lourence Ilagan and Alexis Toylo have unfortunately had to pull out of the competition. The reason? Unresolved issues with their Schengen visa applications.
These visa complications meant that both players were unable to travel to China for the essential final PDC Asian Tour weekend and the PDC Asian Championship, which was scheduled for the Monday prior to the Finals. Participation in these events was a necessary step, and their inability to attend directly led to their withdrawal from the Amsterdam tournament.
In adherence to PDC Rule 3.7, which outlines procedures for player replacements, the next two players on the reserve list from last month’s Tour Card Holder Qualifier have been called upon. These experienced darts professionals are:
- Daryl Gurney
- Maik Kuivenhoven
Their inclusion ensures that the tournament remains at full capacity and promises exciting contests despite the last-minute changes.
The Grand Stage: 2026 World Series of Darts Finals
The World Series of Darts Finals is one of the most anticipated events in the darts calendar, bringing together the sport’s elite for a battle of skill and precision.
Event Details:
- Dates: September 17–20, 2026
- Location: AFAS Live, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Prize: The coveted World Series of Darts Finals title and a significant prize fund.
The field remains packed with top-tier talent, guaranteeing a thrilling spectacle for fans. Confirmed participants include:
- World Number One Luke Littler, the young sensation.
- Six-time champion Michael van Gerwen, a home favourite.
- Luke Humphries, a formidable force in modern darts.
- European Champion Gian van Veen, showcasing rising talent.
- Gerwyn Price, the ‘Iceman’ known for his powerful game.
- James Wade, the consistent ‘Machine’.
- Jonny Clayton, the ‘Ferret’ and a multiple major winner.
- And many more international stars ready to compete.
Tournament Structure and Key Matches
The tournament unfolds over four days, featuring a direct knockout format that promises high-stakes drama from the very first dart.
Draw Bracket Highlights:
The draw has been adjusted following the withdrawals, setting the stage for some incredible matchups:
- (1) Michael van Gerwen will now face Daryl Gurney (replacing Lourence Ilagan).
- (2) Gerwyn Price takes on Brody Klinge.
- (3) Luke Littler is set to clash with Danny Noppert.
- (4) Luke Humphries begins his campaign against Jermaine Wattimena.
- (5) Gian van Veen will play Chris Dobey.
- (6) Jonny Clayton will now meet Maik Kuivenhoven (replacing Alexis Toylo).
- (7) James Wade faces Damon Heta.
- (8) Stephen Bunting takes on Josh Rock.
Other exciting first-round matches include Rob Cross v Ryan Searle, Kevin Doets v Ross Smith, and Nathan Aspinall v Raymond Smith.
Schedule of Play:
Get ready for four days of intense darts action:
- Thursday, September 17 (19:00 CEST) – Round One x8:
- Viktor Tingstrom v Dirk van Duijvenbode
- Rob Cross v Ryan Searle
- Karel Sedlacek v Ben Robb
- Kevin Doets v Ross Smith
- Stephen Bunting v Josh Rock
- Luke Humphries v Jermaine Wattimena
- Michael van Gerwen v Daryl Gurney
- Gian van Veen v Chris Dobey
- Friday, September 18 (19:00 CEST) – Round One x8:
- Adam Leek v Jim Long
- Motomu Sakai v Callan Rydz
- Wessel Nijman v Simon Whitlock
- Nathan Aspinall v Raymond Smith
- James Wade v Damon Heta
- Gerwyn Price v Brody Klinge
- Luke Littler v Danny Noppert
- Jonny Clayton v Maik Kuivenhoven
- Saturday, September 19 – Round Two:
- Afternoon Session (13:00 CEST): Four matches from the top half of the draw.
- Evening Session (19:00 CEST): Four matches from the bottom half of the draw.
- Sunday, September 20 – Finals Day:
- Afternoon Session (13:00 CEST): Quarter-Finals.
- Evening Session (19:00 CEST): Semi-Finals and the Grand Final, crowning the 2026 champion.
Please note that the schedule is subject to change, and any further withdrawals would be handled according to PDC Rule 3.7 to ensure a fair and complete tournament.
Source: Based on an article from Darts World Magazine.
