Sarkozy divorce confirmed
Updated on 18 October 2007
French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife Cecilia have divorced, ending speculation about their 11-year marriage.
Mr Sarkozy's spokesman announced the pair were separating, and clarified the statement hours later, making clear they had "divorced by mutual consent".
The couple's lawyer said they had already seen a judge to formalise the split and agreed financial terms.
Lawyer Michele Cahen said: "There was no problem, they resolved everything amicably."
It is the first time in modern French history that a serving president has divorced his wife, and Mr Sarkozy's reaction to the split will come under intense scrutiny.
Mrs Sarkozy played a crucial role in his rise to power, serving as an adviser while he worked as interior and finance minister.
Mr Sarkozy himself vaunted their relationship, telling aides she was "the only non-negotiable part" of his career.
The media compared the couple to America's glamorous John and Jackie Kennedy, but behind the glossy exterior, there were clear signs their marriage was flailing.
Mrs Sarkozy played no public part in her husband's election campaign this year, did not vote for him in the second round and only appeared fleetingly alongside him at three public engagements since his May victory.
