In the ever-evolving world of professional darts, a fresh chapter is about to unfold on ITV screens. As the sport continues to captivate audiences with its blend of precision, drama, and unyielding tension, a new presenter is stepping up to the oche to guide viewers through the action. Gabbie Partington, a dynamic 32-year-old broadcaster from Surrey, has been named the new face of ITV’s darts coverage, ushering in an era of renewed energy and enthusiasm. With her infectious personality and proven track record in sports media, Partington is poised to make her mark starting next week, replacing the long-serving Jacqui Oatley and bringing a vibrant twist to the broadcasts.
Partington’s journey to this prominent role is a testament to her versatility and passion for sports. Describing herself as an “entertainment and sport” presenter who is a “Jack of all trades, master of fun,” she has built a multifaceted career that spans golf, snooker, football, and now, prominently, darts. Her roots in golf saw her fronting the Aramco Team Series on the Ladies European Tour, where she navigated the sun-soaked courses of the Middle East, securing exclusive interviews like one with pop sensation Jason Derulo during a tournament in Riyadh last February. This experience honed her ability to engage with high-profile personalities under pressure, a skill that will undoubtedly shine in the fast-paced world of darts.
But Partington is no stranger to the darts scene. Over the past few years, she has become a familiar and beloved figure among PDC fans and staff. In 2025, she described her time at the World Series events as a “cracking couple of weeks,” presenting coverage from iconic venues like Madison Square Garden in New York and Gliwice in Poland. Her role extended beyond the camera; she often took the stage during ad breaks at major tournaments, including the World Championship at Alexandra Palace and the World Matchplay at Winter Gardens, whipping up crowds of over 3,300 with her high-energy antics. Not for the faint-hearted, this involved energizing rowdy fans and conducting lively interviews in bustling food courts, proving her knack for connecting with the sport’s passionate supporters. Her approachable demeanor has made her a popular presence on the TV circuit, earning praise for her genuine enthusiasm and ability to blend fun with insightful commentary.
Adding to her credentials, Partington has served as the Master of Ceremonies for the World Snooker Tour, making her debut at the 2024 Unibet British Open at Cheltenham Racecourse. She’s also been a matchday presenter for Wolverhampton Wanderers, delivering engaging content to football crowds, and provided live updates on darts, golf, and snooker for talkSPORT radio. This diverse background equips her perfectly for the demands of darts broadcasting, where quick wit and crowd interaction are key. As a close friend of fellow sports broadcaster Laura Woods, who once affectionately posted on social media, “Happy birthday my little darling,” during Partington’s celebrations, she brings a personal touch that resonates with viewers seeking relatable on-screen talent.
This transition comes amid significant changes for ITV’s darts coverage. The network has secured a deal with the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) extending until 2028, ensuring free-to-air access to select high-profile events in the UK. However, production has shifted in-house to Matchroom Media, the PDC’s owner, leading to an overhaul of the on-screen team. While Sky Sports handles major spectacles like the World Championship, ITV focuses on gems such as the World Series, World Masters, UK Open, European Championship, and Players Championship Finals. This shake-up promises a refreshed look and feel, blending familiar elements with innovative approaches.
Partington’s debut couldn’t come at a more exciting time. She’ll kick off her tenure alongside Mark Webster, the 2008 BDO World Champion turned respected pundit, whose warm, factual style complements her lively approach. Their first assignments: the Bahrain Darts Masters from January 15-16, followed swiftly by the inaugural Saudi Arabia Darts Masters. These World Series events will feature top talents like world No. 1 Luke Littler, fresh off retaining the Sid Waddell Trophy, alongside powerhouses such as Luke Humphries and Michael van Gerwen. Expect high-stakes matches in exotic locales, with Littler making his first appearances since his triumphant defense, adding an extra layer of anticipation.
Of course, this new era follows the heartfelt departure of Jacqui Oatley, who had been the steadfast face of ITV darts for over a decade. After her final event at the Players Championship Finals in Butlin’s Minehead last November, Oatley reflected emotionally on social media: “Heading home for the final time from ITV Sport duty after a decade with a brilliant production team. First three years were presenting football, including Euro 2016, World Cup 2018, with darts, darts, darts throughout. Can’t express how grateful I am to have worked with such amazing people. The producers, led by Phil Heslop, are incredible, the directors, spotters, pundits, commentators, crew behind the camera, sound guys, graphics team, Jonesy (who tells me off for being an inch off my standing spot) – everyone. Always smiling while working hard – most of all, they care about the output. Because that’s what it’s all about: the viewer’s experience. We hope our genuine enjoyment came across. Back to football for me now but I’ll still be going to the darts. With a pint in hand instead of a mic. Bye for now.” She also joked that she’d be watching future broadcasts “with my slippers on instead of sequins,” capturing her graceful exit with humor and warmth.
Pundit Chris Mason echoed the sentiment ahead of that tournament, noting the end of an era: “One more event to do with the current team before production is put in the safe hands of Matchroom. 18 years is a long old time to spend with colleagues that have become friends. Darts of course will be staying on ITV Sport but it’s going feel and look very different.” These reflections highlight the deep bonds formed in the industry and set the stage for Partington to build on this legacy.
As darts continues to grow in popularity, drawing in new fans with its mix of skill and spectacle, Partington’s arrival signals a commitment to keeping the coverage fresh and engaging. Viewers can look forward to her bringing that “master of fun” flair to the screen, perhaps even incorporating her crowd-hyping expertise into live segments. While she won’t be fronting the Winmau World Masters in Milton Keynes from January 29 to February 1, her involvement in other World Series events throughout the year is expected, promising more opportunities to see her in action.
In a sport where every throw can change fortunes, Partington’s enthusiasm could be the perfect spark to elevate ITV’s broadcasts. Whether it’s capturing the thrill of a 180 or the agony of a missed double, her presence ensures that the narrative remains as compelling as the game itself. Darts fans, get ready— the arrows are about to fly under a new guiding light.
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