Jonny Clayton, the reigning champion of 2021, along with Stephen Bunting, Josh Rock, and Gerwyn Price, have been selected as the four wildcards for the upcoming BetMGM Premier League season. These players will join the top four automatic qualifiers based on their rankings – double world champion Luke Littler, defending champion Luke Humphries, Gian van Veen, and Michael van Gerwen.
Gian van Veen, who recently rose to World No. 3 following an impressive performance at Alexandra Palace, surpassed Michael van Gerwen to become the new top-ranked player from the Netherlands. The Premier League, featuring a total of 17 weeks of competition, will kick off in Newcastle on Thursday, February 5, culminating in the final showdown at The O2 in London on May 28.
Luke Littler, fresh from his victory at the World Championship, aims to continue his success in the Premier League after engaging in intense battles with Luke Humphries in recent finals. The upcoming season promises excitement as top darts players vie for the coveted £350,000 grand prize.
PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter expressed enthusiasm for the new lineup, anticipating thrilling matches that will captivate audiences in the UK and Europe. With a focus on building upon the success of the previous year, the 2026 season is set to deliver an unforgettable experience for fans, especially with the Premier League expanding to Belgium for the first time.
The competition format will consist of 16 nights of action, with each league night featuring quarter-finals, semi-finals, and a final played over the best of 11 legs. Points will be awarded each night to determine the league standings, with the top four players advancing to the Finals Night for a chance at the title.
