Why isn’t the ‘Voice of Darts’ Russ Bray refereeing at the World Darts Championship 2025?

RUSS BRAY’S vocal prowess is synonymous with the game of darts – so much so that other referees openly imitate the inflexion of his iconic delivery.

But the “VOICE of Darts” will NOT be reffing the PDC World Darts Championship for the first time in THREE DECADES — here we take a look at why.

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Russ Bray is the most famous darts caller of all-time but will not be at this years World Darts Championship[/caption]

PA

He’s presided over some of the biggest moments in the history of the sport, including 17 nine-darters[/caption]

Who is Russ Bray?

Russ Bray was born on June 22, 1957, in South Ockendon, Essex.

He is the most renowned darts referee the game has ever seen, often referred to as the “Voice of Darts”.

His career in the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) spanned over 28 years.

Russ became famous for his distinctive gravelly voice and trademark calls, including the classic: “Ooooonnne hundred and eight-y!”

He began refereeing in 1993, before officially joining the PDC in 1996.

Career highlights

During his illustrious career, Russ has been an integral part of some of darts’ biggest moments:

• Refereeing 17 televised nine-darters
• Calling the first televised perfect leg in the PDC, achieved by Phil Taylor in 2002
• Calling Michael van Gerwen‘s 17 perfect darts at the 2014 World Championship
• Officiating 28 PDC World Championship finals, including the highly regarded 2007 final between Phil Taylor and Raymond van Barneveld
• Being inducted into the PDC Hall of Fame in 2024

Why isn’t Russ Bray reffing the PDC Darts Championship 2025?

Russ is not officiating at the PDC World Darts Championship 2025 because he has retired from full-time refereeing in the UK.

His decision to step down came in January 2024 as he turned 66 — coinciding with his eligibility for an old-age pension.

The now 67-year-old ref expressed that he felt it was the right time to retire, noting that there are talented young referees coming through the ranks.

His iconic voice can, however, still be heard during select World Series events.

He said: “I’ve had a magnificent career so far, and this game has given me so many opportunities and memories.

“When you’re part of the game, you’re going with the flow, with the rollercoaster, but when you look at the development of the sport since I joined the PDC in 1996, the difference is incredible.

“It’s a global game now. When you’re refereeing on the PDC Asian Tour in Mongolia, and on the World Series [stage] in Australia, you do have to pinch yourself sometimes.

“I’m an old-age pensioner now. We have some cracking youngsters [referees] coming through, so for me personally, I think it’s the right time.”

And on his career highlight, Russ added: “The most special moment for me was the 2007 World Championship final between Phil [Taylor] and Barney [Raymond van Barneveld], which is still said to be the greatest final ever.

“I was fortunate enough to call that final and that was absolutely immense.

“John Part beating Phil in 2003 was another amazing achievement, and another milestone.”

Final appearance

Russ’ last televised ranking match as a referee was at the PDC World Darts Championship final on January 3, 2024.

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Russ Bray speaks with Luke Littler during his last match before retiring — the World Darts Championship 2024 final between Luke Littler and Luke Humphries[/caption]

And what a match to bow out on — Luke Humphries’ remarkable 7-4 victory over teen sensation Luke Littler.

The event at Alexandra Palace marked Russ’ 28th and final World Championship behind the mic, providing a fitting end to his refereeing career at the sport’s flagship tournament.

New role

While Bray has retired from full-time refereeing, he is not leaving the darts world entirely.

Russ Bray released a book about his career in November 2024

As well as refereeing select matches abroad, the PDC created a new role specifically for him as an ambassador, which he took up in 2024.

This position has allowed Russ to continue contributing to the sport he loves and has been a big part of for over four decades.

He has since been seen on the likes of Sky Sports News analysing darts and speaking about his 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.

The book provides an intimate look into his remarkable 28-year career as a professional darts referee, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the sport’s most iconic moments.

Russ shares personal stories about working with legendary players, detailing his journey from a young referee to becoming the most recognisable voice in professional darts.

The autobiography chronicles his experiences, challenges and memorable matches, giving fans a comprehensive understanding of his significant contribution to the sport.