ITV Darts Introduces Stunning New Presenter, Close Friend of Laura Woods

The world of darts is undergoing a significant transformation with the introduction of new presenters and production teams on ITV. Gabbie Partington, a familiar face in the sports broadcasting realm, is set to take over from longtime presenter Jacqui Oatley, who has departed after more than a decade of service.

Gabbie Partington: ITV’s New Darts Presenter

Gabbie Partington, 32, is no stranger to darts fans. Her experience includes presenting the World Series events held in New York and Poland in 2025. She is also geared up to host the upcoming World Series tournaments in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

Partington has actively engaged audiences at major darts events, including the World Championship and World Matchplay, where her presence has invigorated crowds during breaks. Her versatility extends beyond darts; she has also lent her talents to golf and snooker broadcasting, and she previously worked as a matchday presenter for Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Long-Standing Tradition of Darts Coverage

ITV has remained a leading force in free-to-air darts coverage. The channel retains rights for several significant tournaments up to 2028 through a recent agreement with the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). This deal confirms ITV’s commitment to bringing darts to a wider audience.

In a notable shift, the production of darts events on ITV will now be managed internally by Matchroom, which owns the PDC. This change signifies a new chapter in ITV’s approach to sports broadcasting.

Jacqui Oatley’s Departure

Jacqui Oatley has recently stepped down as the face of ITV’s darts coverage, having served in this role for over ten years. Her final assignment was the Players Championship Finals in November 2025. Oatley took to social media to express her gratitude towards her colleagues and reflect on her experiences.

Farewell from Oatley

• Oatley worked on several high-profile events, including Euro 2016 and the World Cup 2018.
• She expressed deep appreciation for her production team and the viewers.
• Oatley plans to return to football while still enjoying darts events as a spectator.

Chris Mason, a colleague and commentator on ITV, also commented on the transition. He acknowledged the lasting relationships formed over 18 years and recognized the upcoming changes to the broadcast’s aesthetics and production.

Closing Thoughts

The arrival of Gabbie Partington marks an exciting new era for ITV’s darts coverage. As fans look forward to the upcoming tournaments, the changes in presentation and production are sure to enhance the viewing experience. ITV continues its dedication to providing high-quality sports programming, ensuring that darts remains a prominent feature on free-to-air television.