The eagerly anticipated Premier League Darts season is set to commence on February 5, 2024, in Newcastle, featuring World No. 1 Luke Littler and defending champion Luke Humphries. The tournament will run on Thursday nights until May 28, 2024, culminating at The O2 in London. With a record prize fund of £1.25 million, the event promises intense competition among the top names in darts, with the ultimate winner taking home £350,000.
This year’s format remains unchanged, consisting of eight players. Four competitors qualify automatically based on the PDC Order of Merit, while four wild-card selections complete the field. The lineup includes promising newcomers alongside seasoned veterans, ensuring a dynamic tournament atmosphere.
Top Contenders for the Title
Luke Littler enters the tournament as a formidable force, having secured nearly every major ranking title over the past year, including victories at the World Championship and the Grand Slam of Darts. As the reigning champion, he will be a strong favorite to retain his title, showcasing his skill and consistency.
Luke Humphries, currently ranked No. 2, seeks redemption after finishing as runner-up to Littler in 2025. This will be his third appearance in the Premier League Darts, and he aims to overcome recent disappointments, including a quarter-final exit at the world championship following a heavy defeat to Gian van Veen.
Young Dutch talent Gian van Veen is also a player to watch. At just 23 years old, he recently captured his first major title at the European Championship, defeating Humphries in the final. His impressive performance in the world championship, where he reached the finals after overcoming top seeds, positions him as a rising star in the competition.
Veteran competitor Michael van Gerwen, known as “Mighty Mike,” returns to the Premier League after an illustrious career, including seven previous titles. Despite his struggles in recent tournaments, his experience and skill make him a constant threat in any match.
Wild-Card Selections and Format
The wild-card spots have been awarded to several notable players, including Josh Rock, who is set to make his Premier League debut. Rock has showcased his potential by reaching the semi-finals at both the World Matchplay and UK Open, and he played a crucial role in Northern Ireland’s World Cup victory.
Another wild-card recipient is Jonny Clayton, a former Premier League champion. Although he has slipped down the Order of Merit, his past successes and experience will be invaluable as he aims to reclaim his place among the elite.
Gerwyn Price, once a rugby player, has become a fan favorite in darts, known for his engaging personality and competitive spirit. Despite a disappointing exit at the recent world championship, he remains a formidable presence with multiple titles to his name, including recent wins at the Poland Darts Masters.
Lastly, Stephen Bunting returns to the Premier League after a successful run, having claimed six PDC titles in recent years. While his ranking has fluctuated, his popularity among fans and solid performance history make him a contender to watch.
Matches will take place every Thursday night across various venues throughout the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Europe, including new locations like Antwerp, Belgium. The tournament format will consist of an eight-person knockout bracket, with players facing off in a series of matches designed to determine the top contenders for the finals.
As the competition unfolds, the excitement surrounding the Premier League Darts promises thrilling nights of high-stakes action. Fans can catch all the matches live on Sky Sports, starting with the opening event on February 5.
