The 2026 Austrian Darts Open, the sixth event on this year's European Tour, is set to captivate fans in Graz from May 8-10. A competitive field of 48 players will battle for the top prize of £35,000, with the tournament schedule structured across three days of high-stakes action.
Defending champion Martin Schindler will begin his title defense against either the legendary Peter Wright or a local Austrian qualifier. The draw has also placed Dutch stars Michael van Gerwen and Gian van Veen in formidable positions, ensuring a star-studded lineup from the outset.
The opening round on Friday, May 8, will feature 16 matches split into afternoon and evening sessions. The afternoon session begins at 1300 local time (1200 BST), with the evening session starting at 1900 local time (1800 BST). Former world champions Michael Smith, Raymond van Barneveld, and Peter Wright headline the Friday action.
Saturday's second round will see the top 16 seeded players, based on the PDC Werner Rankings Ladder, enter the competition. Gian van Veen, the European champion, will face either Dirk van Duijvenbode or Madars Razma. Three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen is set to play Krzysztof Ratajski or a host nation qualifier.
The tournament concludes on Sunday, May 10. The afternoon session will host the Round Three matches, followed by an evening session packed with the Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals, and the Final to determine the champion.
Key first-round matchups include Michael Smith against Ian White, Raymond van Barneveld taking on Alan Soutar, and Dave Chisnall facing Spain's Cristo Reyes. The draw promises intriguing second-round clashes, such as a potential meeting between Martin Schindler and Peter Wright.
Based on reporting from SkySports | News.