A fresh face is set to lead ITV’s darts coverage as Gabby Partington takes the reins as the new host. Starting with the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Darts Masters, Partington brings a wealth of experience from various sports, including previous darts events. She’ll be joined by former World Champion Mark Webster, signaling an exciting evolution for the sport’s broadcast as Matchroom prepares to take over in 2026. Get ready for a dynamic, global, and energetic new chapter for darts fans.
Meet the New Voice of Darts: Gabby Partington
The world of darts broadcasting is buzzing with excitement as Gabby Partington prepares to make her mark as ITV’s new lead presenter. This move signifies more than just a change of personnel; it heralds a new, vibrant chapter for the sport’s presence on television, promising fresh energy and an engaging approach for viewers.
Partington won’t have to wait long to step into the spotlight. Her debut as the permanent host will be at the upcoming Bahrain Darts Masters next week, followed swiftly by the historic, inaugural Saudi Arabia Darts Masters. These two prestigious global tournaments offer a grand stage for her to anchor a sport that is rapidly expanding its international reach.
A Proven Track Record and Versatile Talent
At 32 years old, the London-born presenter arrives with an impressive resume, having honed her skills across various major sporting events. While new to the lead permanent role, darts is far from unfamiliar territory for Partington:
- She was an integral part of the presenting team for last season’s World Series events in New York and Poland.
- Many keen observers at the iconic Alexandra Palace will recognise her from her crucial behind-the-scenes role, where she expertly warmed up crowds and set the electric atmosphere before a single dart was thrown.
Her experience isn’t limited to the ‘tungsten’ world of darts. Partington has also successfully taken on hosting duties in both snooker and golf. These different sports demand unique presenting styles and an ability to adapt, showcasing her remarkable versatility and calm authority in front of the camera. This broad experience will be invaluable as she takes over from Jacqui Oatley, who played a significant role in establishing ITV’s darts coverage as polished and accessible.
A Dynamic Duo: Partington and Webster
Joining Partington in this exciting new setup will be none other than former Lakeside World Champion, Mark Webster. Webster’s extensive insight and firsthand experience from competing at the sport’s highest level will provide the perfect complement to Partington’s presenting style. This pairing promises a compelling blend of expert analysis and engaging commentary, enriching the viewing experience for all darts enthusiasts.
The Future of Darts Broadcasting
With Matchroom officially taking over the reins of darts broadcasting from 2026, a degree of evolution was always expected. This transition naturally brings new voices, fresh faces, and a subtle recalibration of the overall tone. With Gabby Partington now at the helm, guiding ITV’s darts output into its next exciting era, the message is unmistakably clear: the sport of darts is not standing still. It is confidently moving forward, expanding its global footprint, and embracing a fresh, dynamic energy ready to captivate audiences worldwide.
Source: Based on an article from Darts World Magazine.
