The 2026 Premier League Darts season is set to be a thrilling continuation of the action that has captivated fans at the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace. Luke Humphries, the reigning champion, will look to defend his title as the competition moves forward with a mix of returning stars and new faces.

This year’s event promises significant financial rewards, with a total prize fund of £1,250,000. The overall winner will take home £350,000, while each weekly stop offers a £10,000 bonus. A notable addition to the schedule is Antwerp, Belgium, which will host one of the events this year.

How are the Wildcard Players Selected?

The Premier League features a combination of automatic qualifiers and wildcard selections. The top four players in the PDC’s order of merit automatically qualify for the league. The remaining four spots are decided by the PDC, with an emphasis on “star quality” and the ability to perform under pressure. PDC chief executive Matt Porter has hinted that these factors will play a key role in selecting the final four.

Predicted Line-Up for the 2026 Premier League

Automatic Entries

The following players have already secured their spots in the 2026 Premier League:

• Luke Littler
• Luke Humphries
• Gian van Veen
• Michael van Gerwen

Wildcard Candidates

Several players are in the running for the remaining spots, with the PDC considering their potential and performance.

• Josh Rock
  
  The 24-year-old has shown impressive scoring ability, reaching the semi-finals of the World Matchplay and UK Open. He also won the World Cup with Daryl Gurney. However, he was eliminated by Justin Hood in the last 16 of the World Championship.

• Gerwyn Price
  
  A veteran player known for his strong presence on the stage, Price has had a love-hate relationship with fans in the past. Despite dropping to No. 12 in the world rankings, his experience and name recognition make him a likely candidate for a wildcard spot.

• Gary Anderson
  
  A two-time world champion, Anderson has been in excellent form at the World Championship. However, he has expressed concerns about the demanding schedule of the Premier League, stating that he prefers to focus on maintaining his rankings.

• Jonny Clayton
  
  After a strong run at the World Championship, Clayton dropped out of the top four in the rankings. However, as a former Premier League winner in 2021, he remains a contender for a wildcard spot.

• Ryan Searle
  
  Known as “Heavy Metal,” Searle made it to the semi-finals of the World Championship. Despite his strong performance, he has indicated that he doesn’t expect to be selected for the Premier League.

• Stephen Bunting
  
  Once a fan favorite, Bunting has faced challenges both on and off the stage. His inclusion in the Premier League is uncertain, despite his popularity and memorable walkout song.

• Nathan Aspinall
  
  Aspinall performed well in the Premier League last year, finishing third in the regular standings. He could potentially secure a spot if the PDC decides to prioritize players like Josh Rock.

• Rob Cross
  
  The 2018 world champion had a tough time at the World Championship, falling to the last 16. He is expected to miss the Premier League this year.

• Justin Hood
  
  A breakout star at the World Championship, Hood gained a large following for his unique personality and unpredictable expressions. However, his loss to Gary Anderson in the last eight may have ended his chances of a Premier League spot.