Landmark Ban Sends Strong Message on Integrity
English darts player Andy Jenkins has been issued an 11-year ban from the sport following a thorough investigation into match-fixing allegations, according to a statement released by the Darts Regulation Authority (DRA). The sanction, one of the longest ever imposed in professional darts, reflects the seriousness of the offenses and the governing body’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the sport.
Jenkins, a veteran with over two decades of competitive experience and past appearances in PDC (Professional Darts Corporation) events, was found guilty of orchestrating and participating in matches where the outcome was deliberately manipulated for betting purposes. The DRA’s investigation uncovered multiple breaches of its Rules of Conduct, including fixing the result of matches, failure to report corrupt approaches, and bringing the sport into disrepute.
Investigation Uncovers Coordinated Manipulation
The investigation, conducted over several months in collaboration with betting integrity bodies, revealed evidence of irregular betting patterns and communications suggesting deliberate match manipulation dating back several years. Jenkins was shown to have colluded with third parties to influence match outcomes, undermining the fairness and credibility of the competitions involved.
In addition to the ban, Jenkins was ordered to pay £4,000 in costs associated with the proceedings. The DRA emphasized that the offenses were aggravated by the player’s senior status and experience, which could have influenced younger or less experienced competitors.
Regulatory Bodies Reaffirm Zero-Tolerance Stance
DRA Chairman Nigel Mawer commented: “Match-fixing is a scourge that strikes at the heart of sport. This lengthy ban reflects the seriousness of Jenkins’ conduct and demonstrates our unwavering stance on maintaining the integrity of darts.”
The case highlights ongoing efforts within the sport — and across wider betting-related competitions — to combat corruption and betting-related misconduct. With integrity partnerships strengthening between sports bodies and gambling regulators, stakeholders aim to safeguard competitions from undue influence.
Andy Jenkins will be ineligible to participate in any DRA-sanctioned events until 2036, effectively ending his professional darts career.
