The 2026 BetMGM Premier League gets underway in Newcastle on Thursday, with reigning champion Luke Humphries set to launch his title defence at the Utilita Arena as part of a blockbuster opening night.

Night One marks the first of 16 league nights, featuring all eight of the sport’s elite competing in a high-stakes mini-tournament format. Humphries faces an immediate challenge against 2023 runner-up Gerwyn Price, as he bids to join Phil Taylor and Michael van Gerwen as the only players to successfully retain the Premier League title. “There’s always the added expectation when you’re defending champion, but I’m really looking forward to this one,” said Humphries, adding that his World Masters performances have boosted his confidence.

World number one Luke Littler also begins his campaign on Thursday, taking on Premier League debutant Gian van Veen in a repeat of last month’s World Championship final. Fresh from lifting the World Masters trophy, Littler said: “There’s no better preparation for the Premier League than winning the World Masters, so I’m full of confidence and ready to go.” Van Veen, competing in his first full Premier League season, admitted: “It all feels real now; I’m really looking forward to it.”

Michael van Gerwen, chasing a record-extending eighth Premier League crown, opens against Stephen Bunting. Reflecting on his return, the seven-time champion stated: “Last year’s Premier League was a bit of a rollercoaster for me… but that’s in the past, and now I need to make sure my eyes are on the future.”

The evening begins with newcomer Josh Rock facing former champion Jonny Clayton, who returns to the competition after a three-year absence. “This was a dream of mine as a young kid to be in the Premier League,” Rock admitted.

Points earned on each night will shape the league table, with the top four advancing to Finals Night at London’s O2 on May 28.

Source: PDC.TV