The ADC Global Championship is undergoing a major transformation in 2026, expanding from 56 to 128 players and introducing a straight knockout format. The tournament will be staged from November 1 through 8, 2026 at the MODUS Live Lounge in Portsmouth, with matches broadcast live worldwide on Pluto TV and YouTube. Fans will be welcome in the venue all week, creating an intense and intimate atmosphere close to the stage.
The new format means every match is immediately decisive—if you lose, you're out. An insider from the organization stated: "With this format, every match counts from the first dart. One bad game and you can pack your bags." The expansion to 128 participants opens the door for new talent, with 72 additional players getting the chance to test themselves on the global stage. Qualifiers from Africa, Canada, and Australia will also make their appearance in 2026.
With the growth of the field, the qualification system is being significantly expanded. Players will have multiple pathways to qualify, including extra tickets awarded to regional number ones, qualification via the combined VAULT rankings across Series 14 through 18, and direct qualification for the top sixteen players from the Winmau Western European Tour measured over twelve tournaments. The organization stated: "We want to reward performance over a longer period. This system gives players multiple chances to prove themselves."
The tournament structure is also getting an upgrade with sixteen live sessions spread over eight days with afternoon and evening sessions. The choice of the MODUS Live Lounge is deliberate for its intimate setting where fans sit close to the action. With a total prize fund of £126,000, participants will be playing for both pride and serious financial reward. ADC figurehead Scott Hunt said: "The ADC Global Championship 2026 is a huge step forward for us and for the wider amateur game. The expansion from 56 to 128 players is about more opportunities, opening more doors, and giving more players the chance to showcase themselves on a truly global stage."
