Giggs resigns to avoid World Cup distraction

Ryan Giggs has resigned as Wales coach, saying on Monday he didn't want his upcoming trial on charges of domestic violence to destabilize the national team heading into its first World Cup since 1958.

The Manchester United great has been on leave from his post since November 2020, with his assistant, Rob Page, guiding the Welsh to the World Cup in Qatar.

Giggs is accused of controlling and coercive behavior against his former girlfriend from August 2017 to November 2020. He is also accused of assaulting her and her sister. The trial, which was delayed in January, is due to start on Aug 8.

"I do not want the country's preparations for the World Cup to be affected, destabilized or jeopardized in any way by the continued interest around this case," Giggs said.

Giggs, who qualified Wales for the postponed Euro 2020 finals, has pleaded not guilty to the charges.