The 2026 Premier League Darts season has kicked off with some major surprises! After three thrilling nights, it’s not the highly-touted Luke Littler or reigning world champion Luke Humphries topping the table. Instead, Welshman Jonny ‘The Ferret’ Clayton has surged into an early lead, showcasing championship form. Meanwhile, debutant Gian van Veen is making a serious impression, while established stars like Michael van Gerwen and Gerwyn Price have also claimed nightly wins. However, the biggest shock is the slow start for Littler and Humphries, who find themselves in the bottom half of the standings, already feeling the heat.
Jonny Clayton’s Sensational Return to Form
After a period away, Jonny Clayton, the 2021 Premier League champion, has made a remarkable comeback, leading the standings after Night Three. The Welshman, affectionately known as ‘The Ferret’, has accumulated a **commanding 9 points**, demonstrating the clutch finishing and unwavering determination that once saw him lift the trophy. His return to the top has delighted fans and proven he’s still a major force in the sport.
Current Standings After Night Three:
- 1. Jonny Clayton: 9 points
- 2. Michael van Gerwen: 8 points (Night 1 winner)
- 3. Gian van Veen: 6 points
- 4. Gerwyn Price: 5 points (Night 2 winner)
- 5. Luke Humphries: 4 points
- 6. Luke Littler: 4 points
- 7. Stephen Bunting: 0 points
- 8. Josh Rock: 0 points
This early table shows a mix of seasoned champions and an exciting new talent making waves.
The Favorites’ Early Struggles: Littler and Humphries
Perhaps the most talked-about aspect of the season so far is the **unexpectedly slow start for Luke Littler and reigning world champion Luke Humphries**. Both players, considered pre-tournament favorites, currently sit on just 4 points. While the quality of both players is undeniable, the Premier League is a relentless format, and a few quiet nights can quickly build pressure. Fans are eagerly awaiting their breakthrough performances, as the league doesn’t wait for anyone.
A Look Back: The Nightly Winners
The first three weeks have seen three different champions, highlighting the competitive nature of the league:
- Night One (Newcastle): Michael van Gerwen – ‘MVG’ reminded everyone why he’s a darts legend, taking the opening night and laying down an early marker. Even when doubts creep in, he knows exactly how to conquer this demanding format.
- Night Two (Antwerp): Gerwyn Price – ‘The Iceman’ responded strongly, defeating van Gerwen in the final. This victory showcased Price’s ability to perform under pressure and his dangerous potential in a weekly competition.
- Night Three (Glasgow): Jonny Clayton – This was Clayton’s night to shine. He dominated the competition, **beating Gerwyn Price, then crushing Luke Littler 6-1 in the semi-finals, and finally securing the title with a 6-2 win over Gian van Veen in the final.** His brilliant finishing, including a massive 156 checkout, was a highlight of the night.
Gian van Veen: The Rising Star
A true revelation of the season has been Dutch debutant Gian van Veen. He has already reached **two nightly finals in the first three weeks**, a remarkable achievement for a newcomer in such a high-pressure environment. His consistent performances have not only secured him a spot in the current top four but have also shown he’s comfortable and belongs on the sport’s biggest stage, defying the usual challenges faced by debutants.
Key Moment from Night Three: MVG’s Withdrawal
Night Three in Glasgow also saw a significant development when **Michael van Gerwen withdrew due to illness**. This meant Luke Littler received a bye directly into the semi-finals. While this helped Littler secure valuable points, he was still unable to convert it into a final appearance, falling to the eventual champion, Clayton.
Looking Ahead to Night Four in Belfast
The Premier League action continues to heat up, with Night Four in Belfast promising more drama. A highly anticipated quarter-final clash will see **Luke Littler face Jonny Clayton**, offering Littler an immediate chance for revenge after his heavy semi-final defeat in Glasgow. The league’s format ensures that the standings can dramatically shift with each passing Thursday, keeping every player on their toes and making every match crucial.
The 2026 Premier League Darts season has already delivered excitement, with established champions under pressure, a thrilling debutant making his mark, and a former winner rolling back the years. While Jonny Clayton is currently the man to beat, with the likes of Littler, Humphries, and van Gerwen still in the hunt, the race for the playoffs is only just beginning.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
