The Players Championship Finals is set for a significant transformation from 2027, with the event expanding from 64 to 128 players, according to Online Darts. This change is part of the introduction of the 2027 PDC calendar and represents a stark shift in how the major tournament operates.
The expanded field will make it considerably easier for big names to qualify, addressing a long-standing issue where top players regularly skip floor events due to a congested schedule. The tournament will adopt a multi-board room format similar to the UK Open, also held in Minehead, with the most appetising matchups broadcast on the big stage as usual. This means more players will compete, ranging from Tour Card holders to Challenge Tour and Development Tour regulars who get their chance in Players Championship contests.
As things stand, reigning champion Luke Littler will not be competing in the 2026 Players Championship Finals after participating in just two floor events all year. Nathan Aspinall and Josh Rock also face a race to qualify for Minehead, with the 2026 event scheduled for November 27-29. That edition will be the last with 64 players before the changes take effect in 2027.
