Who is skipping Winmau World Masters despite qualifying? Van Barneveld joined by surprise names in ditching opening major of 2026

After the thrilling World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace, the elite have barely any time to catch their breath. Attention turns immediately to the next major event: the Winmau World Masters, traditionally the first major of the new darts year. However some have decided not to bother in Milton Keynes.

Last week it was confirmed that Raymond van Barneveld will not take part in qualifying for the Winmau World Masters. The five-time world champion made a clear, rational choice. During the same period, ‘Barney’ had been invited by FC Twente to perform a series of exhibitions.

Speaking to Tubantia, Van Barneveld explained his decision. “Then you do the math: two days at FC Twente, where I can earn good money, or absolutely nothing if you don’t survive the prelims. I chose the first,” said Van Barneveld. The now 58-year-old from The Hague was candid about the risks of the qualifier, where only a handful of players manage to book a spot at the main event.

For Van Barneveld, who in the twilight of his career is increasingly selective with his schedule, it is not the first time he has prioritized commercial commitments over a sporting opportunity. His absence does mean that one of the Netherlands’ greatest darting icons will be missing from a major stage.

On Tuesday, another surprising name was added. Jurjen van der Velde, recently in possession of a PDC Tour Card, has likewise decided not to travel to England for the qualifier. His reasons have not yet been officially disclosed.

The withdrawal is notable, given Van der Velde has been on a strong run. Last month the 23-year-old made his debut at the World Darts Championship, immediately winning over the crowd. During his walk-on he created a playful moment by entering the stage with insect spray, a clear nod to the notorious ‘Ally Pally wasp’ that caused chaos at previous Worlds.

From a sporting perspective, his Worlds campaign ended quickly. Van der Velde lost 3-1 in sets in the first round to Danny Noppert, but he certainly showed he has the level to compete with the world’s best. Two weeks ago brought another milestone when he secured a PDC Tour Card for the first time. That automatically made him eligible for the World Masters qualifier, an opportunity he is now passing up.

Also not playing despite qualifying include Mickey Mansell surprisingly. While Ryan Meikle also similarly isn't involved. Maximilian Czerwinski who isn't involved much on the ProTour to begin with also won't play neither will new comers in Filip Bereza, Adam Leek or Matthias Ehlers.

The big story too is that most of the affiliate tour players invited have also snubbed the chance. These include Noa-Lynn van Leuven, Gemma Hayter, Robyn Byrne, Rhian O'Sullivan and Lorraine Winstanley from the Women's Series. As well as a host of players from the other tours including Leonard Gates, Stowe Buntz and Adam Sevada from CDC and Marko Kantele, Johan Engstrom among others from the main periphery tours.

Peter Wright, Michael Smith lead the entries for the qualifiers which take place on Wednesday. The lack of first round prize money seemingly has been a deciding factor and has meant less entries across the board. Some groups now also only feature two people in them meaning it is fairly easy to get through in that regard to face Littler and co.