The ongoing legal battle between Rebekah Vardy and Coleen Rooney, famously known as the Wagatha Christie dispute, has taken a new turn as Vardy challenges the exorbitant legal costs claimed by Rooney from their 2022 libel trial.
Vardy, who lost the case after a judge ruled in favor of Rooney, has been ordered to pay 90% of Rooney’s costs, which have soared to over £1.8 million. The costs include extravagant expenses such as a stay at a luxury hotel, drinks, and items from the mini-bar for one of Vardy’s lawyers.
In response, Vardy’s barrister argued that the costs could have been lower if Rooney had conducted the litigation appropriately. Jamie Carpenter KC, representing Vardy, highlighted the excessive nature of Rooney’s claimed costs, including charges for a lawyer staying at the Nobu Hotel and other questionable expenses.
On the other hand, Rooney’s barrister, Robin Dunne, accused Vardy of launching the libel action despite knowing the truth of Rooney’s accusations. He criticized Vardy for refusing to engage with Rooney to avoid the legal proceedings, leading to additional costs for Rooney.
The dispute over the legal costs has now returned to the High Court, with both parties presenting their arguments before Senior Costs Judge Andrew Gordon-Saker. The hearing is set to conclude on Wednesday.
The Wagatha Christie saga began in 2019 when Rooney accused Vardy of leaking stories about her to the press. The subsequent libel trial attracted significant public attention, with Justice Steyn ruling in favor of Rooney, stating that Vardy was likely involved in leaking the stories.
Despite the legal battle, Rooney expressed relief at winning the case but admitted to finding the trial “horrible.” Vardy, on the other hand, trademarked the phrase “Wagatha Christie” after her loss in court.
The ongoing dispute between the two high-profile figures continues to captivate the public’s interest as the legal proceedings unfold.
