Only two players in Premier League Darts history have managed to defend the crown — Phil Taylor (2005–08) and Michael van Gerwen (2016–19, 2022–23). Luke Humphries wants to join that short list by winning back-to-back titles in 2026.
Humphries is in just his third Premier League season but has already reached two finals: he lost to Luke Littler on his debut and then lifted the trophy in 2025. Now he is chasing another high-profile achievement to further build his legacy and place himself among the sport’s greats.
He says the chance to join such an exclusive group matters because of what it would mean for his career. Humphries describes the goal as an opportunity to add meaningful accolades early on, something that will ‘‘cement’’ his standing and shape the way his long-term career is remembered. He also notes he expects to have another decade or more at a high level, but achieving big honours now helps set up a strong finish to his career.
To cope with the demanding 17-week Premier League schedule, Humphries has made small, targeted changes both on and off the oche. He’s focused more on health and recovery, and has tweaked his equipment and technique — adjusting the length of his points by a few millimetres and using slightly stronger flights that he feels fly better. Those marginal gains, he believes, can add one or two percent to his game and make a meaningful difference over a long season.
Consistency underpins Humphries’ approach. He admits he does not always produce the huge 110-plus averages that grab headlines, although he has hit a 118. More regularly, he hovers around a 100 average, a steady level he thinks suits the Premier League format. That reliable scoring is a reason he and Littler have both prospered in the competition.
Humphries opens his title defence in Newcastle against Gerwyn Price, who is in improved form and currently ranked world No. 12. He expects a tough first night: Price will be motivated to reassert himself after being eclipsed in recent discussion by Humphries and Littler, and will want to make a statement. Humphries says he likes to start strongly to relieve pressure later in the campaign and will be ready for a competitive opener.
The Premier League runs weekly from February through May. Humphries will be defending his title as the season begins, and fans can follow the action on Sky Sports, with streaming available through NOW.