Mighty Mike sends statement: Van Gerwen beats Luke Littler in pre-PDC World Darts Championship thriller in Finland

Michael van Gerwen landed an early psychological blow ahead of the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship after defeating Luke Littler in Monday’s final of the International Darts Cup in Tampere. The two biggest stars of the sport met in front of 7,500 fans in Finland, with Van Gerwen sealing an 8–6 victory to close out the exhibition double-header.

The win came less than 24 hours after Van Gerwen had lost Sunday’s final to Luke Humphries, but Monday brought the matchup everyone wanted to see: Van Gerwen vs the world No 1 and teenage phenomenon who has transformed the sport’s global profile.

Van Gerwen looked razor sharp throughout the night. He crushed Vincent van der Voort 7–0 in the semi-finals, while Littler overcame Peter Wright to set up the marquee clash.

The final delivered tension, pace and a high-level standard, but it was the Dutchman who finished the stronger and walked away with the trophy.

Although the International Darts Cup is an exhibition event, its timing gives every result an added layer of meaning. With the World Darts Championship now looming, players use these packed showcase nights to fine-tune their scoring, test themselves under pressure, and stay match-ready.

For Littler, the Finland swing was another chance to enjoy the huge crowds he now draws wherever he goes. For Van Gerwen, Monday’s win was a reminder — to fans and rivals — that he remains a force capable of stopping the sport’s new superstar.

Many of the world’s elite — including Phil Taylor, Luke Humphries, Fallon Sherrock and Vincent van der Voort — appeared across the weekend, blending friendly exhibition atmosphere with real competitive edge. These nights offer fans close-up access and meet-and-greets, but for the players, they also provide rhythm and confidence before December’s main event.

Van Gerwen’s victory doesn’t count towards rankings, but the manner of it — especially with Littler on the other side of the stage — will not go unnoticed.