The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) has confirmed the format for the 2026 Premier League Darts season will remain unchanged. Chief Executive Matt Porter emphasized that the popular eight-player format will continue, despite speculation surrounding possible alterations.
2026 Premier League Darts Format Details
Since its inception in 2005, the Premier League Darts has evolved through various formats. The current format, established in 2022, features:
- An eight-person competition.
- Weekly events with nightly winners.
- A regular season lasting 16 weeks.
This season includes the top four players from the PDC Order of Merit following the World Darts Championship, supplemented by four wildcard picks. The season culminates in a Finals Night held at The O2 in London.
Schedule and Event Locations
The 2026 season kicks off in Newcastle on February 5, followed by the first-ever event in Belgium the following week. The PDC made this announcement in September, confirming the schedule without changes to the competition structure.
Order of Merit Insights
As of December 31, reigning Premier League champion Luke Humphries and runner-up Luke Littler are set to return for the 2026 season. They currently occupy the top two positions in the Order of Merit. Other prominent players like Michael van Gerwen and Jonny Clayton are also assured spots.
Challengers and Selection Criteria
While Nathan Aspinall and Gerwyn Price reached Finals Night last season, they faced early exits at the recent World Darts Championship. Other notable participants from last year, such as Stephen Bunting and Rob Cross, also struggled in the championship.
Darts enthusiasts are keenly watching players like Danny Noppert and James Wade, who are positioned within the top 10 of the Order of Merit. Meanwhile, Gian van Veen and Josh Rock are among those contending for a Premier League spot.
Future Considerations and Player Selection
Porter acknowledged the complexities involved in selecting the participants for the Premier League. He stated, “We never make a decision until the end when we’ve got all the facts in front of us.” This cautious approach ensures that only players demonstrating consistent high-level performance are chosen.
Humphries, the world number two, expressed that selecting just eight players introduces challenges. He noted, “There are many good players, and picking the final lineup will be difficult.” Ultimately, the PDC prioritizes ensuring participants are truly prepared for the demands of the Premier League format.
