Eight German players will start at the 2026 Darts World Championship in London – record! Former title holder Luke Humphries does not rule out a German triumph at Alexandra Palace.
“The German darts level is better than ever before. Five years ago there was almost only Max Hopp. Now there are a lot of good players,” Humphries told “Sport1”.
In 2023, Gabriel Clemens sensationally reached the semi-finals at the World Championships in London, only to have to admit defeat to the eventual champion Michael Smith. Last year Ricardo Pietreczko made it to the round of 16.
Who could ensure a German run at the Darts World Cup 2026 (December 11th to January 3rd)? “Gabriel Clemens isn’t playing that well at the moment, but there are many who have the potential. For me, Niko Springer is the most striking candidate who could go far,” said Humphries.
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Can Springer win the World Darts Championship?
The 2024 world champion also gives Martin Schindler good chances. “Both have a chance, but Niko has something special – high scores, good form, strong against top players, and he doesn’t let the pressure deter him. If he keeps that up, he can go far – maybe even win,” Humphries said.
The Englishman concluded: “It’s difficult to win his first major as a World Championship, but he definitely has what it takes. I’m sure he will believe in himself and also that he can win the tournament.”
Springer will face Australian Joe Comito in the first round of the 2026 Darts World Cup on December 16th. After that, a real hit could be waiting for Josh Rock, eleventh in the world rankings.
Springer beats darts legends
At the Grand Slam of Darts, the “Meenzer Bub” recently caused a stir with victories against former world champions Michael van Gerwen and Gary Anderson. In the round of 16 it was over against his German compatriot Lukas Wenig.
For jumpers, encounters with darts greats are now part of everyday life. At the beginning, however, it was a “weird situation” to suddenly be standing next to icons like van Gerwen and Anderson on the tour, the 25-year-old revealed in a press conference at PDC Europe when asked sport.de.