Controversial scenes marred the 2026 UK Open last weekend at the Butlin's Minehead Resort, with ITV repeatedly apologizing for X-rated crowd chants targeting UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The abusive language was most audible during the final between Luke Littler and James Wade, prompting immediate on-air apologies from commentators. This incident follows similar anti-Starmer chants at the 2025 World Grand Prix, where Sky Sports also apologized, and at the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship, where Sky Sports lowered crowd noise levels to mask the chants.
Despite the off-oche drama, the sporting spectacle delivered a gripping final. Luke Littler defeated James Wade 11-7 to claim his second consecutive UK Open title, a feat not achieved since Michael van Gerwen's wins in 2015 and 2016. Littler now joins an elite group of players who have defended the title, including Van Gerwen, Phil Taylor (2009 and 2010), and Raymond van Barneveld (2006 and 2007). Taylor remains the tournament's record holder with five triumphs in 2003, 2005, 2009, 2010, and 2013.
For Littler, this victory marks his second UK Open crown, placing him alongside multiple champions like Wade, who previously won the tournament in 2008, 2011, and 2021. The focus quickly returned to the darts action after the chant incident, highlighting Littler's rising dominance in the sport.
