Professional darts player suspended after alleged assault at Nuneaton event

Adam Smith-Neale is being investigated

Author: Jon BurkePublished 13th Mar 2024
Last updated 16th Apr 2024

A professional darts player's been suspended, after allegedly assaulting an opponent at an amateur event in Nuneaton.

Adam Smith-Neale has been suspended by the Darts Regulation Authority after the incident.

The world number 82 appeared to throw a punch at the oche, in video footage that has appeared online.

The DRA, which governs all PDC Tour events and players who hold a tour card, has issued an indefinite suspension pending a disciplinary hearing.

A statement from the governing body read: "On 12th March 2024 Nigel Mawer the DRA Chairman took the decision to suspend Adam Smith-Neale from attending or competing in DRA sanctioned events.

"This relates to an allegation that he assaulted another player at the end of his match in an amateur event in Nuneaton played on 9th March 2024.

"He has the right to appeal the suspension decision and he will face a disciplinary hearing at a date to be arranged."

The 30-year-old regained his PDC Tour card last year after a five-year absence. He will now miss next week's Player Championship 5 and 6 events in Hildesheim.

A PDC spokesperson said: "The PDC are aware of a video from a non-affiliated event, featuring a Tour Card Holder, which is circulating on social media.

"The Darts Regulation Authority have been made aware and are investigating this appropriately."

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