The PDC Tour Card is the golden ticket to professional darts, granting access to the sport’s biggest stages. This exclusive list of 128 players, valid through 2026, features a thrilling mix of established legends like Luke Humphries and Michael van Gerwen, alongside dazzling new talents such as Luke Littler and Gian van Veen. These cardholders will compete for glory, prize money, and ranking points, shaping the future of darts for the next two years, with many earning their spot through the intense Q-School competition.
What is a PDC Tour Card?
A PDC Tour Card is much more than just a piece of plastic; it’s the ultimate credential for any aspiring professional darts player. Holding this card grants you:
- Automatic entry into all Players Championship events: These are the backbone of the PDC ProTour, offering significant prize money and crucial ranking points.
- Access to qualifiers for major televised tournaments: Without a Tour Card, participating in events like the UK Open, European Championship, or World Matchplay is virtually impossible.
- A place in the professional darting ecosystem: It signifies your status as a full-time professional, allowing you to build a career on the circuit.
These cards are typically valid for two years, providing a secure foundation for players to compete and climb the rankings.
The Exclusive 128: Who’s In?
The list of 128 PDC Tour Card holders represents the pinnacle of professional darts. It’s a dynamic blend of seasoned veterans, reigning champions, and ambitious newcomers, all vying for supremacy. The composition of this elite group is determined primarily by two pathways:
1. The PDC Order of Merit (Top 64)
The top 64 players on the PDC Order of Merit – a two-year rolling ranking based on prize money won – automatically retain their Tour Cards. These are the sport’s heavyweights, consistently performing at the highest level. This group includes names like:
- Luke Humphries: The reigning World Champion and current world number one, whose consistent brilliance has defined recent seasons.
- Michael van Gerwen: A three-time World Champion and one of the sport’s all-time greats, still a dominant force.
2. PDC Q-School Qualifiers
For those outside the top 64, or players looking to break into the professional ranks, PDC Q-School (Qualifying School) is the proving ground. Held annually, Q-School is an intense multi-day tournament where players battle for a limited number of Tour Cards. These cards are valid for two years, offering a fresh start or a second chance. Recent Q-School events have brought exciting new talent to the forefront, ensuring the sport remains vibrant and competitive.
3. Existing Tour Card Holders
Many players will also hold a Tour Card earned in a previous Q-School (e.g., in 2024 for 2024/2025) or through their ranking performance, which is still valid for the 2025 and 2026 seasons.
Stars Leading the Charge Until 2026
The current crop of Tour Card holders features some of the most exciting talents in darts:
- Luke Littler: The teenage sensation who burst onto the scene at the 2024 World Championship, capturing the imagination of millions and quickly establishing himself as a top-tier player. His inclusion ensures a captivating future for the sport.
- Gian van Veen: A rapidly rising Dutch star, Van Veen has shown immense promise and skill, marking him as one to watch among the next generation of darting greats.
- Alongside these names, the list is packed with established pros and emerging talents, each contributing to the high standard and fierce competition on the ProTour.
The Road Ahead: What it Means for 2025 and 2026
For these 128 players, the Tour Card is their gateway to a packed calendar of events. They will spend the next two years competing across the globe, aiming to:
- Win ProTour titles: Each victory brings prize money and crucial ranking points.
- Qualify for major championships: Success on the ProTour can lead to spots in prestigious televised events.
- Climb the Order of Merit: Higher rankings mean better seeding and more secure Tour Card status for the future.
The constant turnover, fueled by Q-School and the relentless competition on the circuit, ensures that the professional darts landscape is always evolving, promising thrilling action and new rivalries until 2026 and beyond.
Source: Based on an article from News – Dartsnieuws.com.
