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RUSS BRAY’S remarkable vocal abilities are synonymous with the darts community, so much so that fellow referees often imitate the distinctive inflection of his iconic calls.
However, the “VOICE of Darts” will be absent from the PDC World Darts Championship for the first time in THIRTY YEARS — let’s delve into the reasons for this shift.
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Who is Russ Bray?
Russ Bray was born on June 22, 1957, in South Ockendon, Essex.
He is recognized as the most distinguished darts referee in history, famed as the “Voice of Darts”.
His association with the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) spanned over 28 years.
Russ became a household name thanks to his gravelly voice and signature calls, most notably: “Ooooonnne hundred and eight-y!”
His journey as a referee commenced in 1993, and he became an official part of the PDC in 1996.
Career highlights
Throughout his illustrious career, Russ has played a vital role in some of the most significant events in darts:
Why isn’t Russ Bray refereeing the PDC Darts Championship 2025?
Russ will not be officiating at the PDC World Darts Championship 2025 due to his retirement from full-time refereeing in the UK.
He announced his retirement in January 2024, coinciding with his 66th birthday and his eligibility for an old-age pension.
Now at 67, Russ indicated that it was the right time to step back, emphasizing the emergence of talented young referees.
However, his iconic voice will still feature during selected World Series events.
Darts legend Russ Bray has a bold plan to eliminate the ‘worst thing in the game’
He remarked: “I’ve had an incredible career, and this sport has afforded me countless opportunities and unforgettable memories.
“Being involved in the game means experiencing its highs and lows, and witnessing the sport’s growth since I joined the PDC in 1996 has been remarkable.
“Darts has now become a global phenomenon. Refereeing the PDC Asian Tour in Mongolia and on the World Series stage in Australia occasionally feels surreal.”
“As a pensioner now, and with some outstanding young referees rising, I feel it’s the right moment for me to step aside.”
I’ve had an incredible career
Russ Bray
Looking back on his career highlight, Russ shared: “The most special moment for me was the 2007 World Championship final between Phil [Taylor] and Barney [Raymond van Barneveld], often considered the greatest final ever.
“I was privileged to officiate that final, and it was truly monumental.
“John Part’s triumph over Phil in 2003 was another remarkable moment and a major milestone.”
Final appearance
Russ’ last televised ranking match as a referee took place during the PDC World Darts Championship final on January 3, 2024.
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And what a match to end his career — Luke Humphries’ stunning 7-4 win against rising star Luke Littler.
The event at Alexandra Palace signified Russ’ 28th and final officiating at the World Championship, a fitting conclusion to his remarkable career in the sport’s biggest tournament.
New role
Although Bray has stepped away from full-time refereeing, he remains engaged with the darts community.
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In addition to officiating at select international matches, the PDC has appointed him to a new ambassador role, which he embraced in 2024.
This position allows Russ to continue making significant contributions to a sport he loves and has been part of for over four decades.
He has also been featured on platforms like Sky Sports News, offering analysis on darts and sharing insights from his extensive career.
All About Darts
Russ’ book titled All About Darts: The Ultimate Guide to the World’s Greatest Sport was released on November 7, 2024.
This book provides a personal perspective into his extraordinary 28-year journey as a professional darts referee, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from the sport’s most memorable moments.
Russ recounts anecdotes about his experiences with legendary players, highlighting his evolution from a novice referee to the sport’s most recognizable voice.
This autobiography chronicles his myriad experiences, challenges, and unforgettable matches, granting fans a thorough understanding of his significant influence on darts.
