Luke Littler has become the latest high-profile player to call for a change to the Premier League Darts format, advocating for a return to the 10-player league system with a Judgement Night and relegation. Speaking ahead of the 2026 Premier League Darts Play-Offs at The O2, where he faces Gerwyn Price in the semi-finals, Littler told SportsBoom: “I'd like to see a change. I'd like to play in the Premier League where it's just one game a night. Get an extra two players in, get a Judgement Night back in as well, because that's what I grew up watching.”
The 17-year-old world champion acknowledged that the current format—featuring eight players in a weekly tournament-style schedule—has its supporters, but he personally prefers the old structure. “It was very, very interesting to see obviously two Premier League players go with your 10th and 9th, and then the other eight can battle it out,” Littler said, referencing the relegation element that saw players eliminated mid-season. He added, “If it's not working, then change it, but if it's working for the PDC, then just keep it in place,” showing a pragmatic respect for the governing body's decisions.
Littler's comments come after Michael van Gerwen earlier stated he thinks the format should change but doubts the PDC will do so. PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter has said “watch this space” regarding potential changes, while acknowledging that there are multiple schools of thinking and that the fact people care about the format means it must matter. Porter has previously noted that the nights sell out before the line-up is announced, and that those who complain are often watching on TV.
Littler, who became the youngest world darts champion ever at 17, will vie for the Premier League Darts crown later tonight at The O2. He opens his play-off campaign against Gerwyn Price, with the winner advancing to face either Luke Humphries or Jonny Clayton in the final. As the season concludes, Littler may walk away with the title—and could defend it in a completely new format come next season.
