The PDC's newest referee, 27-year-old Englishman Owen Binks, made his debut during the first Euro Tour weekend of 2026, stepping into a spot left by veteran George Noble's farewell at the World Darts Championship earlier this year. Binks was called into action on Sunday at the Poland Darts Open, part of the European Tour, where he successfully oversaw matches including Chris Dobey versus Michael Smith. He had previously gained experience at the Modus Super Series, an independent tournament circuit often seen as a breeding ground for talent.
However, his baptism on the European Tour took an unexpected twist when master of ceremonies Philip Brzezinski attached a nickname to him during his walk-on. Brzezinski introduced him as "Owen Jar Jar Binks," a reference to the much-discussed Star Wars character Jar Jar Binks, known as a comic and somewhat clumsy figure. While the audience may have smiled, Binks's body language showed surprise and a hint of irritation, with his facial expression conveying his displeasure.
Shortly after, Binks made his feelings clear on social media, writing in all caps: "I REQUIRE A NEW NICKNAME." This response highlights his less-than-impressed reaction to the Star Wars themed introduction, as he seeks to establish his own identity in the PDC's close-knit refereeing corps, which includes officials like Noble nicknamed 'The Pup' and Kirk Bevins 'The Kirkulator'.
