The BetMGM Premier League made a spectacular return to Newcastle on Wednesday February 4, as the tournament’s title sponsor unveiled a three-metre tall golden dart on the banks of the River Tyne to mark the opening night of the 2026 campaign.

All eight Premier League stars were present quayside, including reigning champion Luke Humphries, who posed with the trophy in front of the iconic Tyne Bridge ahead of Thursday night’s action at the Utilita Arena. The players will compete across 17 weeks in a multi-city league format, battling for a total prize fund of £1,250,000.

Adding further excitement, BetMGM confirmed the return of its 18ct gold darts incentive, which rewards any player who hits a nine-darter with a bespoke £30,000 set. The prize proved hugely popular in 2025, when five perfect legs were recorded, prompting BetMGM to hand out £150,000 worth of gold darts.

Humphries welcomed the tournament’s return, saying: “Newcastle is a really fun place to come for the darts and we’re all excited to get the 2026 BetMGM Premier League campaign underway. Seeing BetMGM’s giant dart on the Tyne today with the iconic bridge behind us has set the scene perfectly and I can’t wait to defend the title I won last year.”

BetMGM Brand Director Dan Towse added: “The opening night of the BetMGM Premier League is unique, and we wanted to help build the anticipation this year with an eye-catching display at one of Newcastle’s most iconic locations.”

PDC Head of Commercial Adam Perfect highlighted the city’s importance to the event, stating: “The Premier League has a long and special relationship with Newcastle… and this visual moment on the river really underlines how big the BetMGM Premier League Darts has become.”

The league will see eight elite players contest nightly mini-tournaments, with ranking points determining the top four who progress to Finals Night at The O2 in London on May 28.

Source: PDC.TV