Snooker Professional Mark King Receives Five-Year Ban for Match-Fixing.

Professional Snooker Player Mark King Handed Five-Year Ban for Match-Fixing

Mark King, a professional snooker player, has been banned from all activities sanctioned by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) for five years after being found guilty of match-fixing during a match against Joe Perry.

The WPBSA launched an investigation and suspended King on March 18, 2023, following reports of suspicious betting activity on his match against Perry on February 13, 2023. The case also included allegations related to a previous match against John Higgins on December 13, 2022.

An independent Disciplinary Committee reviewed the evidence, finding King guilty of fixing or attempting to fix the outcome of the Perry match and providing inside information for betting purposes. The committee dismissed charges related to the Higgins match, confirming that no other players, including Perry and Higgins, were implicated.

Key Findings and Sanctions

• Charges Proven:
  • Fixing or attempting to fix the outcome or score of the Perry match.
  • Sharing insider information for betting purposes to influence the Perry match.
• Sanctions:
  • A five-year ban from WPBSA-recognized activities, effective from March 18, 2023, to March 17, 2028.
  • A financial penalty of £68,299.50 to cover costs.
• King has the right to appeal the decision by November 28, 2024.

The investigation involved collaboration between the WPBSA, bet-monitoring partner Sportradar, and the UK Gambling Commission’s Sports Betting Intelligence Unit. The disciplinary hearing, chaired by Graeme McPherson KC, took place in May 2024 under the oversight of Sport Resolutions.

WPBSA Chairman’s Statement

Jason Ferguson, WPBSA Chairman, expressed his disappointment, stating:
“The global expansion of this sport brings great responsibility, both for players and for the WPBSA as its governing body. Mark King is an experienced player with a successful career, and it is deeply saddening to see this outcome. However, the integrity of snooker remains our top priority. This case underscores our unwavering commitment to ensuring that the sport is trustworthy for fans and partners worldwide.”

The findings emphasize the WPBSA’s strict stance on maintaining fairness and transparency within the sport.