Rob Cross Opens Up on Company Director Ban and Vows to Repay Tax Debt

Rob Cross has spoken publicly for the first time since being banned from acting as a company director, acknowledging the situation as a deeply regrettable chapter in his life but vowing to take responsibility and move forward.

The 2018 World Champion and current World No. 9 was disqualified from serving as a company director for five years after his business accrued over £450,000 in unpaid tax liabilities. While the ban has cast a shadow over his off-the-oche profile, Cross is determined to make amends and restore trust through action rather than excuses.

Reflecting on the situation, Cross was candid: “It’s not the proudest moment of my life. I’ve made mistakes and I’m not going to shy away from them. I hold my hands up — this happened on my watch, and now I’m doing everything I can to make it right.”

To address the debt, Cross has entered into an Individual Voluntary Arrangement (IVA), a formal agreement that allows him to repay the outstanding sum over time. He emphasized that taking this route shows his commitment to resolving the issue transparently.

“This isn’t about dodging responsibility,” he explained. “Going through the IVA process shows I’m not running from anything. I’ve chosen to stand up and face it. That means a lot to me — and hopefully, it will mean something to others too.”

Rob Cross Opens Up on Company Director Ban and Vows to Repay Tax Debt
Rob Cross Opens Up on Company Director Ban and Vows to Repay Tax Debt: Matt Heasley/PDC

The financial and legal saga has spanned two years behind the scenes, a period that Cross admits has taken a toll both emotionally and financially. Despite the long and complicated road to resolution, he expressed relief that the matter is now moving in a positive direction.

“It’s been a long journey,” he said. “It took two years to reach this point, and it cost a lot — financially, emotionally, mentally. I was struggling more back then than people realised. But now it’s out in the open, and I’ve got a clear path to make it right.”

Cross also acknowledged the disappointment fans might feel, offering a sincere apology: “I’m sorry to everyone I’ve let down. I know this will tarnish my reputation to some extent, but all I can do is own it, fix it, and keep moving forward.”

He continued, “It’s not something I ever wanted to go through, but I’m relieved it’s sorted now. The UK government was keen for this not to end in bankruptcy, and I agree — I never wanted to go that route. Now I can focus on paying it back and getting back to doing what I love.”

Rob Cross Opens Up on Company Director Ban and Vows to Repay Tax Debt

 

Despite the off-stage challenges, Cross insists his darts career remains in a strong place. He returns to action today in New York as he begins the defence of his bet365 US Darts Masters title against American number one Danny Lauby. The tournament, held at the iconic Madison Square Garden, holds a special place in Cross’s heart.

“I’m buzzing to be back here,” he said. “There’s something really special about this place. I’ve been here a few times now, but last year’s win was unforgettable.”

Cross has used the recent break from competition to recharge, physically and mentally, and says he’s feeling refreshed and ready for the challenge.

“I’ve had a proper rest,” he shared. “That was the goal — to recharge the batteries and reset. I’ve got some new darts in my hand and I’m feeling great.”

Referencing his recent performance in Copenhagen, where he impressed despite minimal practice, Cross added: “I was solid and consistent, which tells me I’m in a good place. I didn’t overdo it in terms of preparation, and that seemed to work for me.”

He concluded: “I’m in a good headspace now. That’s where I need to be. What’s happened is part of my journey, but it’s not the end of the story. I’m focused on defending my title here in New York and showing people who I am — on and off the oche.”