The excitement is palpable as the 2025 Premier League Darts lineup has been officially announced, featuring North East darts star Chris Dobey alongside reigning champion Luke Littler. The eight-player roster was unveiled on Monday, marking another thrilling chapter for the tournament set to commence on February 6 at the SSE Arena, Belfast.
Dobey, who hails from Bedlington, expressed his exhilaration at being part of this elite group, which includes prominent names such as Michael van Gerwen, Luke Humphries, Rob Cross, Gerwyn Price, Stephen Bunting, and Nathan Aspinall. After his impressive run to the semi-finals at the recent PDC World Championship, Dobey was confident this opportunity would be pivotal for his career. “I'm buzzing to be part of it, it's another step in the right direction for my career,” he said, reflecting on the prestige associated with playing alongside the best weekly.
The Premier League Darts is renowned for its electric atmosphere, attracting viewers akin to the World Championships. “You get to play with the elite week in, week out,” Dobey added. “It's similar to the World Championships. Everybody wants to be watching the Premier League.” The incorporation of Dobey, known by his moniker 'Hollywood,' draws excitement from his local fanbase, especially with the Newcastle Arena slated to host one match on March 27.
The lineup comprises four wildcard selections, which includes Dobey, Stephen Bunting, Gerwyn Price, and Nathan Aspinall, who will join the top four based on PDC's Order of Merit: Littler, Humphries, Cross, and van Gerwen. The tournament format will see matches take place every Thursday night across various cities, concluding with the finals at the O2 Arena, London, on May 29.
This year's Premier League promises compelling clashes as the darts community buzzes about the prospects of the line-up. Littler, who made headlines by capturing his first world title, will aim to defend his 2024 crown. His opponent during the momentous win at Alexandra Palace, van Gerwen, will be returning, showcasing the competitive spirit of the tournament down the line.
While Dobey and fellow wildcards celebrate their spots, the lineup has raised eyebrows among fans—most noticeably due to the omission of other notable players like previous World Champion Michael Smith and Peter Wright. Their absence has led to disappointment from those who felt they deserved inclusion. “It is a hard one to take. I was in the situation last year where I felt like I played pretty well consistently and was just overlooked,” Dobey admitted, highlighting the competitive nature of the selection process.
PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter provided insight on these choices, emphasizing the focus on stage presence and popularity when forming the lineup. “We want people on the edge of their seats. We want people up and enjoying their darts,” he stated during discussions with Sky Sports. These strategic selections aim to maintain the Premier League's reputation of delivering captivating entertainment.
The tournament’s structure includes consecutive events across the UK and Europe, such as nights set for Glasgow, Dublin, and Newcastle, each featuring knockout rounds and points awards for successful competitors. Each night will showcase intense matchups to secure player standings and determine who progresses to the concluding playoff events.
The surge of enthusiasm extends beyond the players as fans gear up to witness the high-stakes competitions. The PDC ensures all matches will bring thrilling moments and excitement, characteristic of elite sports entertainment. Tickets have flown off the shelves for the season, forecasting crowded venues filled with fans eager for the energy only darts can provide.
Reflecting on his return to the Newcastle Arena—a place where he feels electric support—Dobey commented on the personal significance, stating, “Playing in front of my home crowd is unbelievable.” His choice to reinstate the 'Local Hero' walk-on song, previously beloved by his fans, serves as a reminder of his Geordie roots and connection with the audience.
So, as the countdown to the Premier League Darts begins, ultra-competitive spirit, electrifying performances, and passionate fans set the stage for what promises to be another exhilarating season.
The first match kicks off on February 6, setting the darting world alight as players vie for both the prestigious title and their share of £1 million prize money. With weeks of matches and fierce competition, there’s no telling what riveting moments lie ahead.