What's Happening?
The 2026 PDC Qualifying School has concluded its first stage, with Rhys Griffin, Adam Leek, Arno Merk, and Filip Bereza securing the initial four PDC Tour Cards. The event took place in Milton Keynes, UK, and Kalkar, Germany, where players competed to advance to the Final Stage. Griffin, who had lost his Tour Card in 2025, regained it by defeating several competitors, including a decisive 6-0 victory against former Grand Slam Champion Scott Waites. Adam Leek, from Australia, also earned a Tour Card after a series of victories, culminating in a narrow win against Tyler Thorpe. In the European Q School, Germany's Arno Merk and Poland's Filip Bereza secured their Tour Cards, marking a significant achievement in their careers. The competition continues
with more Tour Cards up for grabs in the coming days.
Why It's Important?
Securing a PDC Tour Card is a significant milestone for darts players, granting them access to compete in professional tournaments and potentially elevate their careers. For players like Griffin and Leek, regaining or obtaining a Tour Card opens doors to higher-level competitions and increased visibility in the sport. The event highlights the competitive nature of darts and the opportunities it presents for players to advance their careers. The distribution of Tour Cards also reflects the growing international appeal of darts, with players from various countries competing at high levels.
What's Next?
The PDC Qualifying School will continue with additional stages, offering more players the chance to secure Tour Cards. As the competition progresses, players will aim to perform well in the remaining stages to earn their place in the professional circuit. The outcomes of these events will shape the roster of players competing in upcoming PDC tournaments, influencing the dynamics of the sport in the coming year.
