The 2025 Premier League Darts lineup is on everyone’s lips, especially after the conclusion of the PDC World Darts Championship. This year’s anticipation is ramped up by speculation, especially with the announcement set for January 6.
With the tournament kicking off on February 6 in Belfast, the darting community is abuzz with names being tossed around, with notable mentions such as Michael van Gerwen, Luke Littler, Luke Humphries, and Rob Cross. The stakes are high, and the competition is fierce, as many established players are out of form, leading to speculation about potential new entrants. Historically, the Premier League has favored commercially viable choices. PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter expressed, “We are probably not going to please everybody. But we have to make the decision we feel is right for the millions who'll watch on TV and the hundred-plus thousand who'll join us in the arenas.”
Luke Littler, the reigning champion, tops the list of names expected to feature prominently. At just 17, Littler already has an impressive haul, including titles from the World Series of Darts, Grand Slam of Darts, and of course, the Premier League. The limelight is his to keep as he aims to defend his title against fierce competition throughout the 2025 season.
Alongside him, Luke Humphries has been consistently challenging the darting hierarchy. Although Humphries faced early elimination during the World Championship, his previous accolades, which include the World Matchplay title and the World Cup of Darts, bolster his chances of remaining with the top tier of players.
Meanwhile, veterans like Michael van Gerwen and Rob Cross are also under consideration. Van Gerwen, who reached the finals of the World Championship, still demonstrates his formidable talent, showing he can compete against the best when at his peak. Rob Cross, currently ranked fourth, has consistently performed well but experienced challenges during the latest Premier League season. Cross remains eager to maintain his position.
Gerwyn Price’s place in the lineup could also be contentious. Despite his somewhat lackluster performance this season, Price’s star power and remarkable fighting spirit may be enough to secure him another spot. The Welshman managed to perform relatively well at the World Championship, hinting at potential for resurgence.
Stephen Bunting has emerged as another contender worth mentioning. He finally broke his long wait for success last February by winning The Masters, followed by his commendable semi-final run at the World Darts Championship. Enthusiastic support from the fans, known as the “Bunting Army,” could play significantly toward his chances.
Another player generating buzz is Mike De Decker, who enjoyed considerable success recently, particularly with his victory at the World Grand Prix. Even though he stumbled during the World Championship, many observers still believe his recent performances validate his place among serious contenders.
Damon Heta is making waves with captivating plays, including his eye-catching nine-dart finish at the Ally Pally. Many expect Heta’s entertaining style to appeal to both audiences and the PDC committee as they finalize the lineup.
The drama does not stop there. Aspinall recently voiced dissatisfaction about the participation of players like Gary Anderson and Gerwyn Price, criticizing them for not embracing the Premier League concept. "You know what, it really grates on me (players saying they don't want to play in the Premier League)," shared Aspinall. He argues players who are not willing to compete should not be afforded spots, no matter their past accomplishments.
Anderson, noting it would afford him time with family, has publicly stated he may no longer wish to be involved. Though competing for years, he appeared to close the door on future participation as he declared, "I'm at the age now where I've done it; got the t-shirt, thank you very much but no." Aspinall's thoughts showcase the deep pool of talent hungry for opportunities.
Across Europe, opinions differ, especially with Dave Chisnall and Jonny Clayton, both of whom have been tipped for the top positions alongside numerous newcomers eager to shake things up.
This season's lineup decision could symbolize the duality of evolution and tradition within the game, as the PDC strives to balance star power against fresh new talent. Who will make the final cut when the eight-man lineup is revealed? The darting world waits with bated breath as the January 6 announcement approaches, ready to see how the Premier League Darts will adapt and evolve.”