Luke Littler, the 18-year-old world darts champion, has spoken out after his van was vandalised during a darts exhibition in Norwich on 16 May 2025. Posting an image of the smashed rear window on Instagram, Littler labelled the culprits as “absolute scum of the earth” and received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow players.
The vandalism occurred while Littler was competing in the MODUS Icons of Darts event, where he also secured a victory over world number one Luke Humphries. The event, hosted at a packed venue, featured darts legends including Phil Taylor and Raymond van Barneveld.
Police Investigation Ongoing
Norfolk Police confirmed they are investigating the incident but no arrests have been made. Littler’s van was reportedly parked near the venue during the event. As of 18 May, there have been no further updates from law enforcement.
A Setback Amidst a Spectacular Year
The incident marks a rare low in an otherwise meteoric year for Littler. After winning the 2025 PDC World Darts Championship at just 17, Littler has become a household name and a leading force in the sport. His achievements in 2025 include:
- Premier League Darts: Currently topping the table after a record-breaking five nightly wins.
- Grand Slam Champion: Littler won the 2024 Grand Slam of Darts.
- Record Breaker: Posted a record 140.91 average at the 2025 World Championship.
Despite the pressures of sudden fame, Littler has consistently shown resilience and focus, qualities that were again on display following this incident.
Public Response and Player Solidarity
Fans flooded Littler’s social media with messages of support, and several fellow professionals condemned the attack. Many cited the need for greater security around venues as darts continues to grow in popularity and public exposure.
The PDC (Professional Darts Corporation) has yet to issue an official comment, but organisers have pledged to review safety measures.
Darts in the Spotlight
Littler’s rise has paralleled a broader surge in the sport’s popularity. The PDC recently announced a £1 million prize for the 2026 World Championship winner—double Littler’s 2025 winnings. With teen talents like Kaya Baysal also emerging, darts is being redefined by a younger generation.
Looking Forward: Premier League Play-Offs
Littler’s next appearance will be at the Premier League Play-Offs at London’s O2 Arena on 29 May, where he is a favourite to win. Despite the off-stage setback, Littler remains focused on his goal of becoming one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Why This Matters
As a role model and rising star, Luke Littler’s treatment off the oche is as significant as his performance on it. The vandalism of his van is a reminder of the vulnerabilities public figures face—and of the importance of protecting players as the sport continues to expand globally.
