Dirk van Duijvenbode won the Bremen Darts Gala 2026. In front of more than 6,000 spectators at the ÖVB-Arena, the Dutchman beat Martin Schindler 4–1 in the final to claim victory at the tenth stop of this year’s PDC Europe Gala series. Gian van Veen, Ross Smith, Daryl Gurney and Danny Noppert also took to the stage alongside the two finalists.

The evening began with disappointment for the fans, however. Michael van Gerwen, who had originally been announced for the event, had to withdraw at short notice because of illness. His fellow Dutchman Danny Noppert took the three-time world champion’s place in the field. The replacement would go on to produce one of the night’s most spectacular moments.

Schindler reaches the final as Noppert hits a 170 checkout

Martin Schindler began the evening with a 4–2 defeat to eventual winner van Duijvenbode. The German responded in style, beating Ross Smith 4–0 to secure his place in the knockout stage.

In the second group, Gian van Veen progressed with two wins. Daryl Gurney, meanwhile, was eliminated early after losing to Noppert and van Veen.

The night’s sporting highlight came from the stand-in, Noppert. The Dutchman produced a 170 checkout, the highest possible finish in darts.

Martin Schindler reached the final at the Bremen Darts Gala in front of more than 6,000 spectators, but lost 4–1 to Dirk van Duijvenbode.

Schindler and van Duijvenbode met again in the final. As in the group stage, the Dutchman came out on top, winning 4–1. Schindler let too many chances on the doubles go begging.

Despite losing the final, German crowd favourite Schindler was delighted with the atmosphere. “Brilliant to have you here, Bremen. Great atmosphere. Thanks so much for coming,” he told the crowd.

Werder stars add variety to the darts stage

The programme also featured a special exhibition doubles match. Werder Bremen forward Medina Desic teamed up with Daryl Gurney, while former Werder goalkeeper Felix Wiedwald joined Ross Smith at the oche.

Desic and Gurney had the last laugh. The clash between the footballers and the darts professionals provided extra entertainment at the third staging of the Bremen Darts Gala.

Exhibition event with added sporting value

The Bremen Darts Gala was the tenth stop on this year’s PDC Europe Gala series. Although these events do not count towards rankings or competitive results, many top players use them to gain stage experience and connect with the crowd.

PDC Europe’s Gala series continues in 2026. After the successful stop in Bremen, fans can look forward to further events in Jena and Cologne, as well as a double-header in Lingen.