Why a giant dart was seen in Newcastle on Wednesday

All eight competitors—including 2025 champion Luke Humphries—posed with the sculpture ahead of the opening night at the Utilita Arena on Thursday (December 5) night.

Mr Humphries said: “Newcastle is a really fun place to come for the darts and we’re all excited to get the 2026 BetMGM Premier League Darts campaign underway.

Premier League Darts returns on Thursday. (Image: BETMGM)

“Seeing BetMGM’s giant dart on the Tyne today with the iconic bridge behind us has set the scene perfectly and I can’t wait to defend the title I won last year, particularly with BetMGM’s 18ct gold darts up for grabs again.”

The tournament features a weekly league format over 16 weeks and a £1.25 million prize pool.

BetMGM is offering a set of 18ct gold darts worth £30,000 to any player who throws a nine-darter.

In 2025, it was achieved five times.

Dan Towse from the bookies said: “The opening night of the BetMGM Premier League Darts is unique, and we wanted to help build the anticipation this year with an eye-catching display at one of Newcastle’s most iconic locations.

“Today’s stunt sets the tone for the energy and entertainment fans can expect from BetMGM throughout the Premier League Darts season.”

Adam Perfect, head of commercial at PDC, said: “The Premier League has a long and special relationship with Newcastle, and launching this year’s event with BetMGM’s giant dart on the banks of the River Tyne is a fantastic way to celebrate that.”

This year’s players include Luke Littler, Gian van Veen, Michael van Gerwen, Jonny Clayton, Stephen Bunting, Josh Rock, and Gerwyn Price.