ASM Global has confirmed an extension of its partnership with the Professional Darts Corporation, ensuring the continuation of Premier League Darts in iconic UK venues.
- The partnership includes venues in Manchester, Newcastle, Leeds, Sheffield, and Aberdeen.
- Record-breaking sales and unprecedented fan demand have prompted this multi-year agreement.
- Aberdeen hosted Premier League Darts in 2006, with the new P&J Live venue added in 2020.
- The 2024 Premier League saw teenage sensation Luke Littler claim victory, setting the stage for fierce competition in 2025.
In a landmark decision that aligns with both strategic ambitions and the demands of darts enthusiasts, ASM Global and the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) have secured a significant partnership, extending the presence of Premier League Darts in several renowned venues across the United Kingdom until at least 2027. Such an agreement not only recognises the popularity of the sport but also reinforces the commitment by both parties to deliver outstanding experiences to fans.
Five iconic locations in the UK, namely AO Arena Manchester, Utilita Arena Newcastle, first direct arena Leeds, Utilita Arena Sheffield, and P&J Live Aberdeen, will continue to host the Premier League Darts. These venues are acclaimed for their vibrant atmospheres which consistently draw large crowds, illustrating their appeal among fans. The strategic extension of this partnership ensures that darts will remain a staple event in these cities for the foreseeable future.
Since its inaugural hosting in Aberdeen in 2006, Premier League Darts has witnessed significant growth, with Newcastle and Sheffield joining the roster in 2007. Manchester became a part of this prestigious list in 2008, while Leeds made its debut in 2014, setting an impressive attendance record with 11,000 fans. The ongoing inclusion of these venues highlights the sport’s growing appeal in these regions.
The 2024 season marked a historic triumph, with Luke Littler emerging as the Premier League champion. The young sensation is set to renew his rivalry with current World Champion Luke Humphries and seven-time Premier League winner Michael van Gerwen in the 2025 season. The impressive performances and fierce competition contribute to the event’s allure, maintaining high expectations for the upcoming seasons.
Matt Porter, PDC Chief Executive, remarked on the deal stating, ‘These five venues are amongst the biggest and most popular which are visited annually by the Premier League, and it’s great to secure their immediate future through this new agreement with ASM Global.’ Furthermore, ASM Global’s programming director, James Taylor, expressed enthusiasm about the continuation of the partnership, highlighting the electric atmosphere these events provide and the commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to darts fans nationwide.
This partnership between ASM Global and the PDC ensures that Premier League Darts will continue to thrive in key UK venues, meeting the anticipation of fans and maintaining the sport’s rising popularity.
