Premier League Night One preview as Newcastle kicks us off

The 2026 Premier League gets underway in Newcastle on Thursday night, with reigning champion Luke Humphries set to begin his title defence at the Utilita Arena.

The opening night of the new season promises a heavyweight bill in the North East, as eight of the biggest names in world darts compete across the first of 16 league nights.

World number one Humphries is chasing back-to-back Premier League crowns, a feat previously achieved only by Phil Taylor and Michael van Gerwen. His campaign begins with a demanding test against 2023 finalist Gerwyn Price.

“There’s always a bit more pressure when you come in as defending champion, but I’m excited for it,” said Humphries.

“My performances at the World Masters have given me a lot of confidence. I felt my scoring in Milton Keynes was right up there with the best I’ve ever produced.

“I’ve built up a strong Premier League record over the years, and that gives me something to lean on. It would be special to retain this title.”

Humphries famously defeated Luke Littler to lift the trophy last year, while Littler now begins his own campaign against Premier League debutant Gian van Veen, renewing their rivalry after last month’s World Championship final.

Littler has topped the league table in each of his previous two Premier League seasons and arrives in Newcastle full of belief following recent success.

“There’s no better way to prepare for the Premier League than winning the World Masters,” said the 19-year-old.

“I’m feeling confident and ready. Gian will be eager to make a statement in his first Premier League match, but I’ll be doing everything I can to stop him.

“Losing the final last year still hurts, and that makes this one of the tournaments I really want to win again.”

Van Veen becomes the fifth Dutch player to feature in a full Premier League campaign, and the European Champion is hoping to follow in the footsteps of compatriots Michael van Gerwen and Raymond van Barneveld by lifting the trophy.

“It’s starting to feel real now, and I can’t wait,” said the world number three.

“My game is in a good place and I’m feeling confident, but I know how tough this competition is.

“I’m probably going to lose more matches over the next few weeks than I’m used to, and how I respond to that will be important. I’m ready for the challenge.”

Michael van Gerwen, meanwhile, begins his pursuit of a record-extending eighth Premier League title against Stephen Bunting, currently ranked world number seven.

The seven-time champion has failed to reach Finals Night only twice in 13 Premier League appearances and is eager to bounce back after finishing fifth in 2025.

“I love the challenge of performing on the big stage week after week,” said Van Gerwen.

“With new faces involved, it makes things even more exciting. Last year had its ups and downs for me, but this competition is a sprint, not a marathon.

“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved in the Premier League, but that’s behind me now. My focus is fully on what’s ahead.”

The night gets underway with Premier League newcomer Josh Rock facing 2021 champion Jonny Clayton, who returns to the tournament for the first time in three years.

Clayton has reached Finals Night in all three of his previous Premier League appearances, but Rock is relishing the opportunity to make an immediate impact.

“This was a dream for me growing up,” said Northern Ireland’s World Cup champion.

“It still feels surreal to say I’m playing in the Premier League. Getting the call was incredible.

“I believe I belong here, and I’m excited to see what the next 16 weeks bring.”

Ranking points are awarded each night, with five going to the winner, three to the runner-up and two to the semi-finalists. The top four players in the league standings will qualify for Finals Night at The O2 in London on Thursday May 28.

Premier League Night One preview as Newcastle kicks us off

2026 BetMGM Premier League

Night One – Utilita Arena, Newcastle

Thursday February 5

Quarter-Finals

Josh Rock v Jonny Clayton

Luke Littler v Gian van Veen

Luke Humphries v Gerwyn Price

Stephen Bunting v Michael van Gerwen

Semi-Finals

Rock/Clayton v Littler/Van Veen

Humphries/Price v Bunting/Van Gerwen

Final

TBC

All matches best of 11 legs