Coleen Rooney has hit back at Rebekah Vardy’s claims in the High Court regarding the costs she has to pay following the Wagatha libel trial. Vardy, who lost the case and was ordered to pay 90% of Rooney’s costs, disputed the “sheer magnitude” of the expenses, including allegations of extravagant hotel charges.
Rooney’s representative, Robin Dunne, refuted Vardy’s claims about hotel costs, stating that they were “factually incorrect” and potentially defamatory. He clarified that a modest hotel had been booked for the lawyer, with the transfer to the Nobu Hotel due to issues with the initial accommodation. The charges incurred at the Nobu were comparable to a Premier Inn, with the minibar bill amounting to only £7 for two bottles of water.
Senior Costs Judge Andrew Gordon-Saker dismissed Vardy’s arguments against Rooney’s choice of legal representation and consultations with her barrister, David Sherborne. He emphasized the high-profile nature of the case and the need for specialized defamation expertise, justifying the expenses incurred.
The Wagatha libel trial, which captivated the public with its dramatic revelations, saw Rooney emerge victorious as the judge ruled in her favor. The fallout from the case led to Vardy trademarking the phrase “Wagatha Christie” and inspired a play based on the infamous feud.
The ongoing dispute over costs highlights the lingering tensions between the two footballer’s wives, underscoring the lasting impact of the high-profile legal battle.
