Strictly Come Dancing star Shirley Ballas is reportedly at risk of losing her judging role at a rival international ballroom contest following speculation about her special 'bond' with dancer Giuseppe Nonnis. Earlier this month, it was rumoured that the 66-year-old dancer was "growing close" to the 36-year-old Italian dancer.
Backlash from dancers
Sources are now claiming that Shirley's relationship with the pro dancer has sparked backlash from other dancers. They claim that she will breach contest rules when she judges Giuseppe at next week's International Championships, which are known as the "ballroom dance Olympics".
Insiders have also claimed that the brunette beauty previously scored Giuseppe highly at the UK Open Dance Festival just months before their relationship began to blossom. Giuseppe, who grew up in Cagliari and lives in Hong Kong, said he was inspired by the award-winning dancer since he was a child.
Relationship timeline
It is understood their relationship started to develop after dancing together in Hong Kong and Blackpool earlier this year. Shirley is due to judge Giuseppe in the Professional Latin at the global dance event, which will be hosted at the Royal Albert Hall.
Rules for the competition state that a competitor may not enter if a member of their immediate family or the same household is on the adjudicating panel, and specifically includes a "de facto spouse". According to The Sun, dance sources have claimed that Giuseppe falls into this category after staying with Shirley during his time in the UK.
Concerns raised
A source told the outlet: "This issue is widely discussed within the professional dance community and the organisers are aware of the concerns, but so far nothing has been done. This is the Olympics of ballroom dance, and the community feels that the rules are not being respected."
"The integrity of one of the dance world's most important competitions needs to be protected." However, a source close to the Strictly judge has told the publication that Giuseppe does not live with her and they do not share a household, meaning their rumoured relationship would not breach the rules.
Express.co.uk has contacted representatives for Shirley Ballas and the International Championships for a comment.
