Florian Hempel opts out of 2026 European Q-School Final Stage: No bid for a PDC Tour Card
PDCTuesday, 06 January 2026 at 12:00
Florian Hempel was actually considered one of Germany’s big hopes this week for regaining a PDC Tour Card at Q-School 2026. But that won’t happen for now: the 35-year-old has officially announced that he will not attempt to win back his Tour Card.
Hempel went public with the decision on his Instagram account and explained it in a detailed statement.
Five years on the pro tour – with strong World Championship performances
Hempel first secured a Tour Card via Q-School in 2021 and then spent five years on the PDC Pro Tour. He particularly caught the eye at the World Championship: in both 2022 and 2024 he reached the third round and impressed with strong performances on the sport’s biggest stage.
As Hempel only had to give up his Tour Card at the start of the new season, he would have been directly eligible for the Final Stage at Q-School 2026.
“The last few years have been intense”
In his statement, Hempel stresses this is not a farewell to darts. Instead, he describes the past years as extremely draining. Constant travel, few breaks, and a tightly packed calendar have taken their toll. The batteries were simply empty.
His goal now is to rediscover focus and, above all, the enjoyment of darts, while deliberately making time for other things.
Closer to the fans – still active competitively
Another key point for Hempel: more time to engage with fans. He is planning increased activity on livestreams, at workshops and events – not just between tournaments.
Hempel will still be active competitively. He plans to play:
- Host Nation Qualifiers
- the Modus Super Series
- selected WDF tournaments
- as well as the NEXT GEN tournament series by PDC Europe
The 35-year-old still has a clear sporting goal in sight: returning to the World Championship via the PDC Europe Super League.
Clarification on Q-School
Hempel emphasizes one point in particular in his statement: sporting fairness. He has consciously decided not to enter the Final Stage of European Q-School in order not to take anyone’s spot. Hempel will therefore go through the First Stage.
In closing, Hempel thanks his family, friends, partners – and the fans who accompany him on his journey, even if it is not always the easiest.
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