Former world champions Luke Humphries and Michael Smith withdraw from 2026 International Darts Open as Rob Cross enters Riesa field through back door

Luke Humphries and Michael Smith have both withdrawn from this weekend’s 2026 International Darts Open, removing two former world champions from the European Tour event in Riesa.

The pair had originally been listed for the tournament, but neither will now take their place in the field. Their withdrawals mean Rob Cross and Maik Kuivenhoven, the two highest-ranked players on the reserve list, move into the line-up.

Smith had already confirmed earlier this week that he would not compete in Riesa, with the former world champion revealing that he needs cortisone injections to address an ankle injury.

Smith explained on social media that the issue had worsened after his recent Pro Tour appearance in Milton Keynes, where he reached the final. “Since I played Pro Tours in Milton Keynes and made the final, my ankles haven’t been in a great place with constant swelling and being unable to walk for 4/5 days straight," he wrote on social media.

The 2023 world champion also revealed that he had already delayed treatment more than once, but decided he could not put it back again. “So, having cancelled my appointments twice for my cortisone injections, I’ve decided I can’t cancel a 3rd time as it really needs sorting,” he added.

Humphries will also be absent from the International Darts Open. The world number one won the Belgian Darts Open earlier this season, but has not appeared on the European Tour since.

The two vacant places in the field will be taken by Cross and Kuivenhoven. Cross is the standout addition, with the former world champion stepping into the draw after initially being on the reserve list. Kuivenhoven also earns a late place in Riesa as the second replacement.

The changes mean the International Darts Open loses two of the biggest names from its original field, but Cross’ promotion ensures another major winner will still join the line-up as the European Tour season continues.