Gian van Veen’s debut Premier League Darts campaign has come to an end after he failed to qualify for the play-offs following last night’s action in Birmingham. The PDC World Darts Championship runner-up gave a valiant effort but saw his hopes dashed when Gerwyn Price defeated him in the semi-final stage of Night 15. Van Veen had earlier beaten fellow debutant Josh Rock 6-3, but could not get a positive result against the Welshman, who confirmed his spot in finals night alongside world number two Luke Humphries – Humphries securing his first nightly win of 2026.
Van Veen took to Instagram to share his thoughts on a memorable campaign. “A Premier League season to remember,” he wrote. “Four finals and a lot of incredible nights so far, but also setbacks and physical struggles which tested me in more ways than one. Big congrats to the players who earned their spot at the O2. You all fully deserved it.” The Dutchman had been a firm contender from the start, reaching the final on a number of occasions, but a bout of kidney stones and the lack of an elusive nightly win sent his campaign spiralling. He regained form late on, but late flurries from others around him curtailed his efforts.
“The Play-Offs are out of reach for me unfortunately,” he continued. “That hurts obviously, but looking back at this debut Premier League season, there is a lot to be proud of. Experience gained, lessons learned and moments that will stick with me for a long time. I will make sure that it will not be my last Premier League.” Despite the disappointment, van Veen still has one night left in Sheffield and will look to end with a bang, possibly claiming his first nightly win. He currently sits sixth in the table behind fellow countryman Michael van Gerwen, and can confirm fifth if he betters the seven-time champion’s result. A single win would seal a top-six finish, with Stephen Bunting five points behind in seventh.
“However, it ain’t over yet. One night left in Sheffield. Time to go out with a bang. See you next week,” van Veen added. Meanwhile, the top four – Humphries, Price, Luke Littler and Jonny Clayton – will contest the finals night on May 28 at The O2, with a huge title on the line.
