The Excitement of Premier League Darts: Littler vs. Van Veen
A little over a month has passed since Luke Littler triumphed at Alexandra Palace to retain his world title, and the anticipation is palpable as he prepares to embark on the exhilarating 17-week European tour. The world’s top players are gearing up for action, with Littler and his seven competitors set to kick off the season in Antwerp next week.
Tour Schedule and Highlights
Following their debut in Antwerp, the tour promises stops in several iconic cities, including Glasgow, Belfast, Cardiff, and Berlin, culminating in a grand finale at the O2 in London on May 28. Each location adds its unique flavor to the event, with passionate crowds ready to support their favorite players.
The Reigning Champion
The spotlight is notably on Luke Humphries, the reigning champion who bested Littler in last year’s final. As the battle for the title intensifies, Humphries understands that retaining his trophy will demand exceptional performance against some of the most skilled players in the world.
A Grudge Match Preview: Littler vs. Van Veen
The first night of the tour will feature a highly anticipated rematch between Littler and Gian van Veen. This encounter is particularly thrilling as it echoes their showdown in the World Darts Championship final, where Littler emerged victorious with a stunning 7-1 win. With van Veen nursing thoughts of revenge, this match promises to be a nail-biter.
Timing and Match Details
Fans wondering when to tune in will be pleased to know that Littler’s match against van Veen is set to be the second match on the night of February 5, 2026, at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle. The evening’s action kicks off at 7pm GMT, with Littler expected to take the stage around 7:40pm. Each match in this thrilling contest will be played in the best of 11 sets format, ensuring plenty of drama and excitement.
Premier League Darts: Full Order of Play
Here’s the breakdown of the opening night’s matches, providing you with the full lineup:
- 7:10pm – Josh Rock vs. Jonny Clayton
- 7:40pm – Luke Littler vs. Gian van Veen
- 8:10pm – Luke Humphries vs. Gerwyn Price
- 8:40pm – Stephen Bunting vs. Michael van Gerwen
This lineup sets the stage for an electrifying night, with each match looking to deliver high-stakes action and memorable moments.
How to Watch
Mark your calendars and prepare to witness this dramatic season kick-off! Fans can catch all the live coverage on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports+, starting at 7pm. For those who prefer to stream, Sky Sports subscribers can enjoy the matches live online via the Sky Go app, ensuring that no fan misses a moment of the high-octane action.
With the Premier League Darts tour officially underway, all eyes will be on the players as they compete for glory, setting the tone for an unforgettable season ahead.
