Top Players to Watch at 2026 Darts World Cup: Lim, Sakai & More
The 2026 World Cup of Darts is set to take place in Frankfurt from June 11 to June 14. This prestigious tournament will be broadcast live on Sky Sports and promises to showcase a mix of top-tier talent and emerging players.
Major Teams and Players
The top four seeded nations include England, Netherlands, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. They boast a lineup featuring stars like Luke Littler, Michael van Gerwen, and Daryl Gurney. However, several lesser-known but talented players are also eager to make their mark.
Key Players to Watch
- Paul Lim (Singapore) – A renowned figure in darts, Lim is known for making history as the oldest player to compete in a World Darts Championship at age 71. His remarkable comeback in 2025 saw him defeat Jeffrey de Graaf after initially losing eight legs.
- Motomu Sakai (Japan) – Sakai gained popularity for his vibrant walk-ons at the World Championships, and he will aim to impress again with his dance moves and dart skills.
- Nitin Kumar (India) – Kumar captured attention after becoming the first Indian player to win a match at the World Darts Championship, defeating Richard Veenstra in December 2025 with a score of 3-2.
- Man Lok Leung (Hong Kong) – Leung made headlines by eliminating Gian van Veen in the first round of the 2023 Championship, proving he can perform on big stages.
- Alexis Toylo (Philippines) – Known for his exceptionally slow throwing technique, Toylo is expected to bring a strategic edge to his play as he competes alongside Paolo Nebrida.
Group Stage Overview
The tournament will feature a total of 16 groups for the participating teams. Key matchups include:
| Group | Team 1 | Team 2 |
|---|---|---|
| A | Germany | Philippines |
| B | Belgium | Hong Kong |
| C | Wales | Lithuania |
| D | Ireland | Singapore |
Viewing Details
Darts enthusiasts can look forward to watching the event live from June 11 to June 14. Those interested in tuning in can access the tournament through Sky Sports, providing an excellent opportunity to witness both seasoned veterans and promising new talent on the world stage.
Don’t miss the action as players aim to secure victories and potentially surprise the favorites in the upcoming 2026 World Cup of Darts.




