PDC

'If a Belgian and a Brit are at a similar level, the PDC might lean toward the Belgian' - Could Antwerp Premier League Darts night have ramifications for selection in 2026?

Originally posted on Dartsnews.com | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 12:17 PM ET

For the first time in its history, the Premier League Darts will make a stop in Belgium. The news was confirmed on Thursday night during the tournament’s grand final — won in dominant fashion by former world champion Luke Humphries — and announced by Belgian broadcaster VTM/HLN.

Set for 2026, the Belgian leg of the competition will be held in Antwerp, marking a significant expansion of the Premier League’s European presence. Until now, only Rotterdam and Berlin have served as regular non-UK venues.

A Growing Global Footprint

The Premier League Darts is one of the sport’s most prestigious events, featuring eight elite players battling it out over 16 weekly nights across various cities. Each week offers a £10,000 winner’s prize, with the ultimate goal being qualification for the grand final in week 17.

This year’s lineup included Luke Humphries, Luke Littler, Michael van Gerwen, Rob Cross, Stephen Bunting, Nathan Aspinall, Gerwyn Price, and Chris Dobey — highlighting the tournament’s elite status.

As per tradition, the 2025 final was staged at the O2 Arena in London, where Humphries comfortably overcame reigning world champion Luke Littler. While the UK remains the heartland of the event, the inclusion of a third European venue reflects the sport’s growing international appeal.

The full 2026 Premier League calendar — including Antwerp's date, venue details, and ticket information — is expected to be released by the end of August.

Van der Voort: "A Positive Step for the Sport"

Former top Dutch player and current analyst Vincent van der Voort hailed the expansion as “big news” during an episode of the Darts Draait Door podcast.

“With Antwerp added, you’ve now got three nights outside the UK. That’s a positive development for the sport,” he said. “Could it replace Rotterdam’s Ahoy? Possibly. If you’ve had consistent issues with a venue for a decade, and players continue to complain about the playing conditions, Belgium becomes a serious alternative. But honestly, I’d expect a UK venue to make way first.”

Van der Voort also suggested the move could boost the chances of Belgian players making the Premier League lineup. “If a Belgian and a British player are performing at a similar level, the PDC might lean toward the Belgian — especially with an Antwerp event on the schedule. Of course, that only applies if the quality is close.”

While the Premier League’s expansion is exciting, the final is expected to remain in London for the foreseeable future. The only exception came during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Berlin briefly hosted the conclusion of the tournament.

“The Premier League remains a very British event at its core — that identity isn’t going to change overnight,” said van der Voort. “But this is a fantastic development for Belgium. The Belgian crowd has proven to be passionate, respectful, and enthusiastic. If that continues, I wouldn't mind seeing the playoffs head to Antwerp one day.”