A PDC card holder received an eight-month suspension following an incident at an amateur darts event that was later reviewed by the sport’s governing authorities.
Adam Smith-Neale was banned by the Darts Regulation Authority after an altercation with an opponent at the Nuneaton Darts Open.
The incident occurred after Smith-Neale was eliminated from the tournament, with footage later emerging that showed a confrontation between the two players at the conclusion of the match. The matter was reported to officials and subsequently investigated by the DRA, who determined that Smith-Neale had breached the sport’s code of conduct.
As a result, the former PDC World Championship competitor was handed an eight-month suspension from darts-related activity under DRA jurisdiction. The ruling meant he was temporarily barred from competing in sanctioned events.
Smith-Neale, who previously competed in the BDO and regained his PDC Tour Card in 2023 after a five-year absence, later returned to action following the completion of his suspension. Since then, he has taken part in several competitions, including appearances in the Modus Super Series.
Speaking about the incident, Smith-Neale explained that tensions had built during the match and that there were verbal exchanges between the players. He said emotions escalated after comments were made following the final dart.
The 32-year-old acknowledged the consequences of his actions and confirmed he had been informed at the time that he was suspended pending investigation for bringing the game into disrepute.
Despite the disciplinary outcome, Smith-Neale stated that he felt strongly about the situation, particularly where comments involving family members were concerned.
The Darts Regulation Authority has not commented further beyond confirming the ban, reiterating its commitment to maintaining standards of conduct across all levels of the game.
The case serves as a reminder of the expectations placed on players, even at non-professional events, and the importance of maintaining composure in competitive environments.
