The stage is set for the 2026 Premier League Darts season, with the full line-up of eight players to be confirmed imminently following the conclusion of a dramatic World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace.
Automatic Qualifiers Secure Their Spots
Luke Humphries will return to defend his Premier League crown as one of the four automatic qualifiers, determined by the PDC Order of Merit. He is joined by the new back-to-back world champion, Luke Littler, who sealed his second successive world title with a dominant 7-1 victory over Gian van Veen in the final, pocketing a record £1 million prize.
The other two players who have locked in their places via the rankings are the world championship runner-up, Gian van Veen, and the legendary Michael van Gerwen. Their places were settled on Monday, 5th January 2026.
The Wildcard Debate Heats Up
The remaining four spots in the prestigious 16-week tournament are wildcard picks, chosen at the discretion of the PDC. These selections offer a crucial lifeline, providing significant prize money, exposure, and top-level competition to build a successful year.
PDC chief executive Matt Porter has indicated that "star quality" and the ability to "perform on the big stage" will be key deciding factors for these coveted invitations.
Leading Contenders for the Four Wildcards
The race for the wildcards features a mix of established names and rising talent. Jonny Clayton, the 2021 Premier League winner, finds himself in contention despite being bumped out of the top four by Van Veen's run to the world final.
Gerwyn Price remains a huge character in the sport. Although now ranked world No. 12, his pedigree as a former Premier League runner-up and his undeniable box-office appeal make him a strong candidate.
Young gun Josh Rock is another favourite, with the PDC potentially keen to back his high potential. The 24-year-old Northern Irishman boasts a powerful scoring game and notable runs in major tournaments, including a World Cup win.
The final spot is fiercely contested. Nathan Aspinall, who finished third and won two nights in last year's Premier League, could have the edge. He may pip Stephen Bunting, who has endured a difficult period, or Ryan Searle, despite the latter's impressive semi-final run at Ally Pally.
Notably, two-time world champion Gary Anderson has stated the gruelling schedule does not suit him, effectively ruling himself out. Meanwhile, breakout World Championship star Justin Hood is unlikely to receive a call-up despite winning many new fans.
The 2026 Roadshow and Prize Fund
The Premier League roadshow will once again span 16 weeks, culminating in the play-offs at The O2 Arena in London. A total purse of £1,250,000 is on offer, with the overall champion earning £350,000. Players can also bag a £10,000 weekly bonus at each of the stops, which this year includes a new venue in Antwerp, Belgium.
With the automatic qualifiers confirmed, the darts world now awaits the PDC's wildcard selections, which will complete the field for what promises to be another thrilling edition of the Premier League.
