Two professional darts players are currently suspended for placing a bet and will be reinstated after serving their penalties.
Adam Smith-Neale has been banned by the Darts Regulation Authority.
Adam Smith-Neale has been temporarily banned by the Darts Regulation Authority.
Professional darts player Adam Smith-Neale has been suspended following the emergence of footage showing him seemingly punching his opponent at a local amateur event.
Smith-Neale, currently ranked No. 82 globally and a holder of a PDC tour card, participated in an event in Nuneaton on Saturday. After losing a match, he was seen in video footage seemingly striking his opponent in the face.
The 30-year-old was met with surprise from the spectators after allegedly punching a man who had turned to shake hands with Smith-Neale. After retrieving his darts, the man walked away as several fans approached and confronted Smith-Neale.
The video of the incident quickly gained widespread attention, prompting the Darts Regulation Authority to take decisive action against him. The DRA, which serves as darts’ governing body, has declared that they have suspended the 30-year-old player.
In a statement, the DRA announced: “On March 12th, 2024, Nigel Mawer, the chairman of the DRA, decided to suspend Adam Smith-Neale from participating in or attending any events sanctioned by the organization.”
This pertains to a claim that he attacked another player following his match at an amateur event in Nuneaton on March 9, 2024. He has the right to contest the suspension decision and will attend a disciplinary hearing scheduled for a later date.
The PDC is also informed about the incident. A spokesperson stated: “We are aware of a video involving a Tour Card Holder from an event not affiliated with us, which is being shared on social media.”
CAPTION: MAIN & GRABS & PIC: PDC tour cardholder Adam Smith-Neale seems to punch his opponent following a match loss, prompting an investigation by darts authorities.
Video of Smith-Neale seemingly punching an opponent went viral over the weekend.
The Darts Regulation Authority is aware of the situation and is conducting an appropriate investigation.
As a result of the decision on Smith-Neale, he will be unable to participate in the upcoming Players Championship events in Hildesheim, Germany next week. He retains the right to appeal; however, it is unclear whether he will choose to do so.
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