Mark King Banned for Five Years Over Match-Fixing in Snooker

Mark King, a top-32 ranked professional snooker player, has been handed a five-year ban by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) for match-fixing offenses and sharing inside information to influence betting.

• Allegations:
  King was found guilty of manipulating the outcome of matches and leaking confidential information that could give bettors an unfair edge. Suspicious betting patterns during his match against Joe Perry at the Welsh Open triggered the investigation in 2023.

• Sanctions:

  • Ban effective from March 18, 2023, to March 17, 2028

  • £68,299.50 fine to cover investigation costs

  • Prohibited from participating in or attending official events in any capacity

• King’s Response:
  He denies wrongdoing but faces the ban unless he appeals by November 28.

• Context:
  The snooker world has been rocked by similar scandals recently, with lifetime bans imposed on former stars Liang Wenbo and Li Hang for match-fixing.

• WPBSA Statement:
  Chair Jason Ferguson expressed sadness but emphasized the governing body’s commitment to maintaining the sport’s integrity as a top priority. No player will be exempt from consequences if they violate conduct rules.