Ricky Martin Splits From Long-Term Boyfriend

Pop star Ricky Martin and his partner of five years Carlos Gonzalez Abella have split up, it has been confirmed.

The news was made official by a rep for the singer, who wrote: "Ricky and Carlos have mutually agreed to end their relationship but continue to be united by friendship and their shared experiences."

Ricky, 42, and his ex are parents to five-year-old twins, Matteo and Valentino - who were born via a surrogate in 2008.

The star had hinted at the news on Twitter before the New Year.

He wrote: "Changes oh changes.

"So, you are waiting to be ready??? Watch out, you can be waiting all your life. #GODoit ;0)"

The couple had been rumoured to be planning to wed in 2011, but Ricky's people later denied the story.