At just 18 years old, Luke Littler, affectionately dubbed “The Nuke,” has taken the darts world by storm, achieving feats most can only dream of. From becoming the youngest PDC World Darts Champion in January 2025 to amassing a net worth exceeding £2 million, Littler’s meteoric rise has captivated fans globally. Yet, amidst his glittering array of accolades, including two World Series of Darts titles and an MBE, one challenge continues to elude the Warrington wonderkid: passing his driving theory test. While his precision on the dartboard is unmatched, navigating the rules of the road has proven a tougher target, leaving Littler reliant on others to ferry him around—often in a van—while he dreams of cruising in a sleek Mercedes A-Class hatchback.
Littler’s journey from a 13-year-old prodigy to an 18-year-old sporting icon is nothing short of extraordinary. Bursting onto the scene with a historic run to the PDC World Championship final at 16, he solidified his status as a generational talent by defeating Michael van Gerwen 7-3 in the 2025 final, pocketing £500,000 and etching his name in darts history as the youngest world champion at 17 years and 347 days. His trophy cabinet overflows with 13 PDC titles, five of which are majors, ranking him among the sport’s elite. Off the oche, Littler’s charm and humility have endeared him to fans, with his appearance on *Celebrity Gogglebox* alongside friend and streamer Morgan Burtwistle, known as AngryGinge, showcasing his down-to-earth nature. Yet, it was during this TV stint that Littler’s driving woes became public fodder.
As the pair lounged on a sofa, surrounded by Littler’s gleaming trophies, AngryGinge couldn’t resist a playful jab. “You can do all this, but you can’t pass your driving theory,” he teased, prompting a sheepish laugh from Littler. The moment, aired to millions, highlighted a relatable struggle for the otherwise unstoppable teenager. Despite his earlier vow at 17 to prioritize driving lessons, Littler’s hectic schedule—filled with tournaments, sponsorships, and global travel—has left little time to hit the books. “I haven’t had driving lessons yet because it’s been so hectic,” Littler admitted after his world title win. “I’m going to have to do it before I get into my twenties when it’ll be too late and I can’t be bothered.”
Littler’s automotive ambitions reflect his grounded personality. While his £500,000 prize money could easily fund a fleet of supercars, he has his heart set on a modest Mercedes A-Class, a step up from his previous favorite, the Ford Focus. “I’ve always loved a Mercedes A-Class—just a small car,” he shared, emphasizing practicality over flashiness. This choice speaks volumes about Littler, who, despite his wealth and fame, remains rooted in his Warrington upbringing. His parents, Anthony and Lisa, still provide him with a monthly allowance, ensuring he stays level-headed. “If I get a car, it won’t be a birthday present from anyone. I think it would have to be a birthday present from me to me,” he quipped, showcasing his independent streak.
The driving test hurdle has become a lighthearted talking point among Littler’s inner circle and fans. AngryGinge, fresh from his own spotlight at Soccer Aid, doubled down on the mockery during their *Gogglebox* appearance, quizzing Littler about his trophies before circling back to his theory test struggles. Yet, Littler takes the ribbing in stride, his infectious laughter diffusing any embarrassment. His focus remains on darts, where he continues to break records, including becoming the youngest player to hit a televised nine-dart finish at the 2024 Bahrain Darts Masters. With ambitions to match Phil Taylor’s 16 world titles, Littler’s drive—on the dartboard, at least—is unwavering.
For now, Littler’s journey to the driver’s seat remains a work in progress. He’s eyeing intensive driving courses in Blackpool or Liverpool, hoping to squeeze them into his packed calendar. Until then, the darts prodigy will continue to be chauffeured, perhaps daydreaming of the day he can trade the van for his dream hatchback. As he navigates this minor roadblock, Littler’s story serves as a reminder that even superstars face everyday challenges—a relatable twist in the tale of a teenager rewriting darts history.
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