Andy Jenkins, a former semi-finalist in the World Darts Championship, has been handed an 11-year ban and a fine of £17,580 for match-fixing. Jenkins, 54, was found guilty of manipulating the results of 12 Modus Super Series matches between February 22, 2002, and July 5, 2023, as well as providing information to bettors during that period. In addition to the match-fixing allegations, he was also found to have placed bets on 88 darts matches, further violating the sport’s integrity rules.
Jenkins’ sanction serves as a warning to others involved in sports about the consequences of such actions. The penalty highlights the seriousness with which the darts governing bodies approach match-fixing and corruption in the sport. In addition to the ban, Jenkins is required to cover the £17,580.03 costs of the investigation. He has until May 6, 2025, to file an appeal if he wishes to contest the ruling.
Jenkins was once a prominent figure in darts, achieving significant success during his career, including reaching the semi-finals of the 2007 PDC World Championship. He was narrowly defeated by Raymond van Barneveld in that high-profile match. However, his involvement in match-fixing has now overshadowed his achievements in the sport.
The investigation was supported by the Gambling Commission’s sports betting intelligence unit, which helped gather critical information during the probe. This collaboration between the Gambling Commission and the darts regulation authority underscores the efforts made to protect the sport’s integrity. By working together, they aim to identify and prevent instances of match-fixing and ensure that betting markets remain fair and transparent for customers.
John Pierce, director of enforcement at the Gambling Commission, made it clear that this case should serve as a deterrent to any other athletes or individuals who might consider engaging in similar activities. He emphasized that the consequences of match-fixing are severe, with those involved likely to face substantial penalties. Pierce also stressed the importance of maintaining trust in sports betting, noting that consumers deserve confidence in the fairness of the markets they participate in.
The case also raises questions about the broader issue of match-fixing in sports, particularly in niche areas like darts. While the sport of darts has grown in popularity in recent years, incidents of match-fixing and corruption can undermine the efforts of its legitimate competitors and tarnish its reputation. The regulations governing the sport are in place to safeguard its credibility and ensure that participants adhere to strict standards of conduct.
In recent years, various sports have faced challenges related to match-fixing, with athletes and officials caught manipulating results for personal gain. These cases have led to stricter regulations and increased scrutiny on the role of betting in sports. The Gambling Commission has been at the forefront of these efforts, working with various organizations to monitor betting patterns and investigate suspicious activities.
The long-term implications of this case could be significant for the sport of darts. As with other sports that have dealt with similar scandals, the sport’s governing bodies may need to reassess their anti-corruption policies and consider further measures to protect the integrity of the game. This may include increased education for players about the risks of match-fixing, as well as more stringent monitoring of betting patterns in future events.
In the aftermath of this ruling, Jenkins’ career in darts appears to be permanently tarnished. The ban ensures that he will no longer be able to compete professionally for over a decade, effectively ending his career at the highest level. For fans of the sport, it is a reminder of the importance of maintaining the integrity of competitive play and ensuring that all athletes operate within the rules to preserve the credibility of their respective sports.
