We’ve agreed it’s the right time for me to take the next step’ – Luke Littler splits with ZXF Management
Luke Littler Parts Ways with ZXF Management: “The Right Time for the Next Step”
Luke Littler, the 18-year-old darts sensation, has announced his decision to split with ZXF Management, led by Martin Foulds, after five years of collaboration that transformed him from a junior prodigy to the PDC world champion. The announcement, made via Instagram on October 6, 2025, comes just hours before his World Grand Prix opener against Gian van Veen, signaling a major career shift as he prepares for a busier 2026. Littler stated: “I want to say a massive thank you to ZXF Management, and especially Martin, for everything they’ve done for me so far in my career. We’ve had some amazing times together over the last 5 years… As my career moves forward and the schedule gets busier, we’ve agreed it’s the right time for me to take the next step with new representation.”
The Split: Amicable and Strategic
Littler’s decision to part with ZXF Management is described as mutual, driven by his evolving career demands and a desire for greater control over his schedule and endorsements. ZXF, under Foulds, guided Littler since his early teens, securing his PDC Tour Card in 2023 and managing his meteoric rise during the 2023/24 World Championship final run at age 16. They negotiated lucrative deals with brands like Target Darts, boohooMAN, and Xbox, contributing to his £1.5 million+ prize money in 2025 from wins in the PDC World Championship (£500,000), Premier League (£275,000), and World Matchplay (£200,000). The team also navigated personal challenges, including his 2024 split with ex-girlfriend Eloise Milburn and public romance with Faith Millar, confirmed in July 2025.
Littler’s statement emphasized gratitude: “Martin has been brilliant for me and I wish him and everyone at ZXF the very best. Excited for what’s ahead.” Sources confirm the split is amicable, with Littler likely seeking new representation—potentially Modus Sports Management, previously linked to Phil Taylor—to handle his global brand and a planned lighter 2026 schedule focused on majors and personal time.
Timing and World Grand Prix Context
The announcement coincides with Littler’s preparation for the World Grand Prix, where he faces van Veen in a best-of-five sets, double-start match on October 7. Littler, who admitted disliking the tournament’s double-in/double-out format after first-round exits in 2023 and 2024, called it one of the “toughest” events. His recent elbow injury, which led to withdrawals from Players Championship events, adds pressure, as does his tied-58th PCOM ranking (£21,000), where rivals like Luke Humphries could close the gap. A deep run could net £120,000 and bolster his confidence post-split.
Fan and Expert Reactions
The news sparked a frenzy on X under #LittlerSplit, with fans shocked but supportive: “Big move for Luke—new team, new era!” Speculation swirled about Modus or a high-profile agency, with Wayne Mardle calling it “a bold step for independence.” Humphries backed Littler: “He’s building an empire—fair play for taking control.” The split, paired with Littler’s hints at a 2026 break for holidays with Millar, suggests a strategic pivot to sustain his dominance while avoiding burnout. As he aims for Phil Taylor’s records, Littler’s move signals a new chapter for “The Nuke.”
