The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) has issued a five-year ban to English snooker veteran Mark King for match-fixing and providing inside information. This decision, following findings from an independent disciplinary committee, also requires King to pay £68,299.50 in costs.

Mark King’s match-fixing scandal rocks snooker

The allegations arose from King’s first-round match against Joe Perry at the Welsh Open on 13 February 2023, where King lost 4-0. Unusual betting patterns linked to this match triggered an investigation. The WPBSA received critical support from the Gambling Commission’s Sports Betting Intelligence Unit (SBIU), which provided key betting data.

John Pierce, the Gambling Commission’s Enforcement Director, emphasised the importance of fair betting markets, stating, “All betting customers in Britain should have confidence that bets placed with licensed gambling businesses are on markets that are fair and free from betting-related corruption.”

He added, “This is why our Sports Betting Intelligence Unit will always work closely with partners such as the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association to support their sporting integrity investigations and allegations of match fixing.

“Today’s announcement should send a clear message that betting-related corruption in sport will not be tolerated.”

WPBSA and Gambling Commission take action

Investigators provisionally enforced King’s suspension, which began on 18 March 2023, during the investigation. With the ban backdated to this date, King will be eligible to return to professional play on 18 March 2028. He retains the right to appeal the decision until 28 November 2024.

WPBSA Chairman Jason Ferguson expressed personal disappointment but underscored the association’s commitment to integrity. “I have known Mark King since he was very young. I am deeply saddened to read the finding in this case. The integrity of this sport will always be our number one priority.”

Ferguson added, “This case is testament to the fact that no stone will ever be left unturned in ensuring that the hundreds of millions of snooker fans worldwide, and our many global partners, can have full confidence in this incredible sport.”

Mark King began his professional career in 1991, becoming a consistent figure within the world’s top 32 players from 1996 to 2015. His crowning achievement came in 2016, when he won the Northern Ireland Open, defeating Barry Hawkins in a nail-biting 9–8 final. King also reached the finals of the Welsh Open in 1997 and the Irish Masters in 2004, though he fell short of victory in both. Throughout his career, he reached the last 16 of the World Championship on seven occasions, but never progressed further.

This incident highlights the WPBSA’s ongoing efforts to uphold the sport’s integrity. Match-fixing has long been a concern, and the association has maintained vigilance by investigating and addressing allegations promptly. In recent years, several players have faced bans for similar violations. The WPBSA collaborates closely with the Gambling Commission to protect the sport’s reputation and ensure fair play.

The Gambling Commission’s involvement shows its dedication to combating corruption in betting markets. By sharing betting data and supporting investigations, it reinforces transparency and fairness in sports betting. The partnership between the WPBSA and regulatory bodies, like the Gambling Commission, is crucial to safeguarding snooker and other sports from fraudulent activities.

A warning for sports professionals

For sports professionals, King’s ban serves as a stark warning about the consequences of unethical conduct. It underscores how vital it is to maintain high ethical standards and the severe repercussions of failing to do so. The WPBSA’s zero-tolerance approach sends a powerful message that they will not tolerate corruption.

As King reflects on his career and future, the snooker community must consider the lessons from this case. The WPBSA and the Gambling Commission continue to work together, ensuring snooker remains a sport built on fairness, respect, and trust.

This ban marks a pivotal moment for professional snooker. It exemplifies the determination of governing bodies to protect the sport’s integrity and serves as a reminder of the consequences of breaching ethical standards. Through collaboration, the WPBSA and the aim to maintain confidence in the sport, safeguarding it for players, fans, and stakeholders alike.

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