Wayne Mardle to join ITV’s darts coverage in 2026
Sky Sports commentator Wayne Mardle is reportedly set to join ITV’s restructured darts coverage from 2026 whilst maintaining his existing broadcasting commitments on the satellite channel, reports BritPanorama.
Mardle, known as ‘Hawaii 501’, is poised to lead ITV’s revamped presentation team. His arrangement with Sky allows him to work with other broadcasters, enabling appearances on terrestrial television while prioritising major events such as the World Darts Championship and Premier League.
The new three-year broadcasting agreement begins in January and includes tournaments like the UK Open, European Championship, World Series events, and Players Championship Finals on ITV4 and ITVX. This deal extends ITV’s partnership with the PDC through 2028, with Matchroom Media taking on production duties.
ITV’s platform continues to provide access to significant PDC events, preserving free-to-air viewing alongside Sky Sports’ subscription-based model. The upcoming changes in ITV’s presenting team follow the departure of Jacqui Oatley, who announced her exit after a decade, and Ned Boulting, who left after seventeen years.
Oatley remarked on her departure, stating, “It’s been an incredible ten-plus years, far longer for some of the other pundits/crew.” Meanwhile, Stuart Pyke is expected to remain exclusive to Sky Sports rather than move to ITV.
The transitions signify the end of an era for ITV Sport’s darts coverage. Matchroom’s new role raises questions about the retention of present personnel who have previously collaborated on PDC and World Series broadcasts, with Chris Mason and Dan Dawson among potential continuity figures for the restructured team.
Mardle’s dual role across platforms marks a significant shift in how darts will be broadcast in the UK. As the sport evolves, this new dynamic could redefine how audiences engage with darts competitions on television, reflecting changing preferences in sports broadcasting.
In a sport where moments of brilliance can resonate beyond the oche, the blend of established talent and fresh production approaches is poised to bring both nostalgia and innovation to the viewing experience. With Mardle at the helm of ITV’s coverage, fans can anticipate a captivating new chapter in British darts broadcasting.
