The 2025 Premier League Darts lineup has been announced, and it’s set to feature some of the top players in the world, including reigning champion Luke Littler and North East star Chris Dobey. The announcement, made earlier this week, confirms the eight-player roster for the eagerly anticipated tournament, which includes six returning players and two wildcards.
The competition will kick off on February 6, 2025, at the SSE Arena in Belfast, and will see players compete weekly across the UK and Europe until the final at the O2 Arena, London, on May 29. This year’s lineup showcases the blend of seasoned talent and rising stars, capturing the attention of darts fans worldwide.
Among the eight players confirmed are Michael van Gerwen, Luke Humphries, Rob Cross, Gerwyn Price, Stephen Bunting, Chris Dobey, and Nathan Aspinall. Each of these competitors brings their own unique style and fanbase to the arena, promising high-stakes matches week after week. The conclusion is expected to be as thrilling as ever, as last year’s champion Littler returns to defend his title.
Bedlington-born Chris Dobey, who made waves with his remarkable run to the World Championship semi-finals, expressed his excitement at being part of this elite group. "I'm buzzing to be part of it; it’s another step in the right direction for my career," Dobey was quoted saying to The Northern Echo. He emphasized the thrill of competing alongside top-tier players and enjoying the massive arenas where the events will take place. The atmosphere, he insists, is incomparable. "Everybody wants to be watching the Premier League," he added enthusiastically.
Dobey’s selection is particularly significant as it marks his return to the Premier League after participating the previous year. Known for his vibrant presence on stage and as the ardent supporter of Newcastle United, Dobey looks forward to stepping out at his home venue, the Utilita Arena, on March 27, 2025. "It’s something special, and something I'm definitely looking forward to," he shared, with plans to change his walk-on song to the Geordie anthem 'Local Hero,' which he used during prior appearances.
Despite the excitement surrounding Dobey’s inclusion, the lineup announcement has sparked some controversy among fans who are disappointed by the omission of notable players such as World Grand Prix champion Mike De Decker and UK Open champion Dimitri van den Bergh. Dobey himself reflected on the tough decisions made by the organizers, saying, "It is hard to take... I was in the same situation last year where I felt I played pretty well consistently and was just overlooked," indicating the competitive nature of the sport.
The PDC (Professional Darts Corporation) has opted for this year’s lineup based on performances, popularity, and crowd-drawing potential. PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter addressed the rationale behind the selections, highlighting the focus on player engagement: "We want people on the edge of their seats. We want people up and enjoying their darts. That isn't to say other players can't do what they do, but we have to make decisions on who is right at the time."
The tournament will consist of 16 match nights, beginning with Belfast and spanning various cities including Glasgow, Dublin, Nottingham, and Cardiff over several months. Amidst these thrilling fixtures, each player will vie for points, with the top four at the end of the regular season proceeding to the semi-finals and finals.
The first night matches include Littler, who is set to take the stage alongside the top-ranked players, all of whom earned their spots through their positions on the PDC’s Order of Merit. Littler has proven his excellence on the big stage, making him not just the defending champion but also one of the most watched players during the period.
Scheduled matches will take place every Thursday night, allowing fans to immerse themselves fully in the electrifying world of darts. Notable venues to host the matches include the AO Arena in Manchester, M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, and the First Direct Arena in Leeds. The anticipation builds as fans look forward to thrilling encounters and stunning performances.
With ticket sales already breaking records for this tenth edition of the Premier League, it’s evident there is strong support and anticipation for the event. This season promises to deliver not only exciting matches but also the electric atmosphere dart fans have come to expect.
The complete schedule outlines across England, Scotland, Ireland, and beyond ensures every region gets to witness the action firsthand. Players will battle for prestige, with both veteran talents and up-and-coming stars eager to make their mark.
Overall, the announcement of the 2025 Premier League Darts lineup sets the stage for what promises to be another exciting year of competition, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments. With Dobey and others ready to take the stage, fans can look forward to witnessing this incredible sport at its finest.