Shay Given Ties the Knot at Westminster Abbey

​Former Republic of Ireland and Premier League goalkeeper Shay Given has officially married his long-time partner, Rebecca Gibson, in a high-profile ceremony at London’s historic Westminster Abbey.

​The 50-year-old sports pundit and former Newcastle United and Manchester City star exchanged vows with the PR executive on Saturday, October 10, following a thirteen-year relationship that included an engagement lasting over a decade.

​Securing the iconic royal venue—famed for hosting high-profile royal events, including the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton—required special permission from both the Archbishop of Canterbury and the royal family. The authorization was granted in part due to the bride’s familial ties to the monarchy; Rebecca’s grandfather previously served as Surveyor of the Fabric at Westminster Abbey and was honored as a Lieutenant of the Victorian Order (LVO). The Very Reverend Dr. David Hoyle, Dean of Westminster, presided over the exclusive service.

​For the landmark occasion, Given wore a sharp black velvet tuxedo, while Gibson stunned guests in an A-line white bridal gown accented with delicate lace patterns, sequins, and a sheer floor-length tulle veil.

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​The bridal party featured the couple’s two daughters, Gracie, 10, and Cassie, 9, alongside Sienna, 19, Given’s daughter from a previous marriage.

​Following the afternoon ceremony, the newlyweds celebrated alongside close family and friends with an upscale reception hosted at London’s historic Hotel Café Royal on Regent Street. Well-wishes flooded in from across the football and entertainment world, with former players and notable figures extending congratulations to the newlywed couple as they finally celebrated their long-awaited nuptials.