Madonna, Ritchie divorce confirmed

Madonna has now confirmed that she is divorcing husband Guy Ritchie.

The pair were rumoured to be announcing their separation this week, and now the news has been verified by the singer's spokeswoman Liz Rosenberg.

"Madonna and Guy Ritchie have agreed to divorce after seven-and-a-half years of marriage," said a statement. "They have both requested that the media maintain respect for their family at this difficult time."

Madonna married Snatch director Ritchie at a ceremony in Scotland in 2000.