The decision was announced during a hearing at Manchester Crown Court.
Giggs, a prominent figure in English football, was originally charged in November 2020 with assault occasioning actual bodily harm against his ex-girlfriend and her sister. He denied all charges and the case had been scheduled for trial earlier this year. However, the trial was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The CPS has now decided to withdraw the charges, indicating that there is not enough evidence to proceed with the case. The reasons for the withdrawal were not disclosed during the court hearing.
The former footballer had previously issued a statement denying the allegations and expressing his determination to clear his name. Following the withdrawal of the charges, Giggs’ legal team released a statement expressing their satisfaction with the outcome and highlighting their belief in his innocence.
The case has attracted significant media attention due to Giggs’ high-profile career as a player and his subsequent role as the manager of the Welsh national football team. The allegations and subsequent legal proceedings have had an impact on both his personal and professional life.
The decision to abandon the retrial marks a significant development in the case, but it does not necessarily imply guilt or innocence. The CPS’s decision was made based on an assessment of the available evidence and the likelihood of securing a conviction.
It remains to be seen how this outcome will affect Giggs’ reputation and future involvement in football. The ex-footballer had stepped aside from his role as the manager of the Welsh national team following his arrest and subsequent legal proceedings. Now that the charges have been withdrawn, it remains to be seen whether he will resume his career in football or if there will be any further consequences.
