PDC's growing influence in darts
The Professional Darts Corporation has seen a significant rise in its global influence during 2026. This year, the PDC received two major nominations at the Sports Business Awards, an event that celebrates the hard work of organizations that make sports accessible and enjoyable for fans and players worldwide. These nominations highlight the PDC’s strong efforts in both large-scale event management and community-driven initiatives.
For the fourth year in a row, the PDC is up for the Best Sports Event of the Year award. This recognition is due to the 2025/26 PDC World Darts Championship. The tournament concluded with a dramatic final between 16-year-old sensation Luke Littler and Dutch veteran Gian van Veen. Littler’s victory marked a historic moment, as he became the youngest champion in the event’s history.
The PDC is also being considered for the Best Sports Community Scheme Social Impact Award. This initiative focuses on expanding the sport at a grassroots level by building local dart facilities. New community centers have opened in multiple regions, allowing more people—especially those from underrepresented groups—to get involved in darts.
To raise awareness for the program, top players including Luke Humphries and Jonny Clayton have visited these new venues. Their presence not only boosted the visibility of the scheme but also inspired fans and players. The initiative, which began in late 2024, has already made a notable impact on darts participation and local engagement.
The PDC will learn if it has won any of the awards during the Sports Business Awards on 27 November. The ceremony, which honors excellence across the sports industry, will mark the conclusion of the PDC's most successful year to date. These nominations underscore the organization’s strong position in both competitive and community aspects of darts.