The 2025 Premier League Darts line-up was announced, featuring eight talented players ready to compete from February to May across various venues.
North East darts star Chris Dobey expressed his excitement upon being selected for the prestigious competition. Known for his electrifying performances, Dobey has earned the respect of fans and fellow competitors alike. "I'm buzzing to be part of it, it's another step in the right direction for my career," Dobey told The Northern Echo. Joining him is reigning champion Luke Littler, along with prominent names such as Michael van Gerwen, Luke Humphries, Rob Cross, Gerwyn Price, Stephen Bunting, and Nathan Aspinall.
This year’s line-up stirred considerable debate among fans, especially surrounding the exclusion of notable players like Mike De Decker and Dimitri van den Berg. Dobey addressed the sentiment, acknowledging the disappointment of those left out. "It is a hard one to take. I was in a situation last year where I felt I played pretty well consistently and was just overlooked," he stated, empathizing with his fellow competitors. "But they make their decisions for their own reasons."
Notably, the lineup includes four wildcards: Dobey, Bunting, Price, and Aspinall. This marks Dobey's return after competing last year. He highlighted his joy at returning to play at the Newcastle Arena on March 27, where he plans to thrill the home crowd, famously known for their passion. "It's something special, and something I'm definitely looking forward to," he noted, planning to revert to his customary walk-on anthem, the local favorite "Local Hero."
Starting on February 6, 2025, the tournament will kick off at the SSE Arena in Belfast. Players will compete weekly at venues across the UK and Europe, culminating at the O2 Arena in London on May 29. Each night of the tournament features intense competition, with players vying for points to secure places for the semi-finals. A total of 16 nights includes locations such as Glasgow, Dublin, and Newcastle, offering exciting darts action every Thursday night.
PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter articulated the vision behind this year’s selection, stating, "We want people on the edge of their seats. We want people up and enjoying their darts." This reflects the organization's commitment to providing thrilling entertainment for fans and highlights the star power of the players chosen.
Luke Littler, who recently claimed the PDC World Championship, will defend his title, facing tough opponents every week. With the tournament poised to showcase the elite of darts, the competition will undoubtedly be fierce. The other top players automatically gaining entry through their high rankings include Humphries, Van Gerwen, and Cross, all known for their high-scoring abilities and showmanship.
Among the wild cards, Bunting is particularly noted for his popularity and impressive recent performances. His selection is celebrated by fans who appreciate his engaging style. Given the drama surrounding the selections, both fans and players anticipate the initial match-ups with eagerness.
Matches will be played every Thursday from February through May, with each tournament night structured to heighten thrills and engage audiences. Viewers can expect to see their favorites battle through knockout rounds, with points awarded according to their performance. Winning players gain five points, with runners-up awarded three, and semi-finalists earning two points, setting up substantial stakes as the tournament progresses.
Following the controversial exclusions, Dobey reflected not only on his own joy but on the broader competitive scene. He noted, “I thought Mike was in with a good shout, but I think if he had gone a couple steps more at the World Championships then he would have been involved.” This sentiment echoes the heart of competitive sports, highlighting how the margins between success and opportunity can often be razor-thin.
With anticipation building around the Darts Premier League 2025, fans are eager to see how the players will perform under pressure and how the atmosphere of live attendance will uplift their spirits as the competition progresses. The inclusion of Dobey and others presents both opportunities and challenges as they write the next chapter of their careers.
Tickets for the events are officially on sale, promising packed venues and lively crowds for each stop along this rollercoaster tour of the Premier League Darts circuit. With enthusiastic fans ready to cheer, the stakes are set for what promises to be another electrifying season.
For Dobey, this opportunity is not just about darts; it's about representing his home crowd and making his mark on the sport. His commitment to the game and the energy he brings to the stage could very well propel him to new heights as the tour kicks off.
With all eyes on the upcoming matches, the 2025 Premier League Darts is set to be one for the history books, featuring incredible talent and moments of drama sure to keep audiences on their toes.
Stay tuned for the action as it begins this February.