Gian van Veen has spoken candidly about the unique challenges of competing in the Premier League Darts, describing the tournament as "very different" and admitting it brings "extra pressure" during his debut campaign in 2026. In an interview with Red Dragon, the world number three highlighted how the event demands consistency over 16 or 17 consecutive weeks from February through May, unlike traditional majors or floor events that are decided in shorter bursts.
Van Veen expressed feeling "privileged to be part of it, to be among the elite eight players the PDC has selected," but noted that this status comes with heightened expectations. "You want to show the world that you belong in the Premier League," he said, emphasizing that every match is played on a televised stage in front of packed arenas across the United Kingdom and Europe, with each result analyzed and remembered.
The format requires careful physical and mental management, as maintaining peak performance for such an extended period involves structured preparation, disciplined recovery, and resilience under sustained scrutiny. Despite the pressures, Van Veen's overriding emotion remains pride, viewing selection for the Premier League as confirmation of belonging among the sport's very best. As he put it: "That's why it feels different compared to other tournaments."
