BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Vito Coppola declares love in emotional statement on 'closing journey' with co-star

Vito Coppola has issued an emotional message to fans as he 'closes' his dancing journey with Sarah Hadland. As fans know, the pair were partnered during Strictly Come Dancing's 2024 series.

They made it all the way to the final, which took place back in mid-December, and Vito and Sarah were seen just missing out on lifting the Glitterball trophy to eventual champions Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell.

After going their seperate ways during the festive season, professional dancer Vito was earlier this month seen excitedly reuniting with Sarah as they prepared to embark on the Strictly Come Dancing Live tour.

But, as the tour got underway in mid-January, Vito confirmed he will be missing the start of the string of arena shows due to an injury and that he would be replaced by his co-star Nikita Kuzmin until he's back to full strength.

While Vito did make a return to the stage, and was seen lifting the Glitterball trophy having been voted the show winners by the live audience, the Italian star has confirmed his time on the road has come to an end as he continues to recover from injury.

Sharing a video of his last moment back performing with Sarah, who he nicknamed Trilly, Vito emotionally shared on Instagram: "This is the way I would like to remember this tour Trilly. Even though I won’t be able to be with you on the Strictly Arena Tour, we had the chance to dance one more time together and it has been as always super beautiful and memorable.

"Let’s always see the glass half full and to stay, keep and spread positivity. We have closed the circle of our journey Trilly and I am glad that we have lifted the trophy together. Team Tiramisu for one last time. I will keep following you and cheering for you, as always and I will come to watch the show every single time I can, so don’t worry, you won’t get rid of me."

He continued: "I promised you that I will take more care of me and my body and I want you to promise me that you will always stay the same enthusiastic, super active, smiling and jumpy person I have met few months ago, before this incredible experience started… keep shining Trilly, you are full of life.

"You are a beautiful person, an amazing woman and the best mom, you know that I Mean It!!! Love you tiny little Trilly. Good luck to everyone and don’t have too much fun without me jokiiiing…Have the best time and Enjoyyyyy . Thanks to you all beautiful people, for the support, for the lovely messages and for everything you constantly do for me. You make me feel loved and warmly welcomed. Keep Danciiiiiiing #teamtiramisu."

Vito went on to share in the comments section: "Even though I am not able to lift and dance full out during an entire show, the recovery is going well and I am giving my best in order to be back soon and stronger!!! In the meantime I will see everyone in Manchester, Nottingham and London, as I will be present for the 'dance with us'@dancewithshirleyandvito classes. Thank you everyone for your support and love. I feel happy knowing that you are in safe hands with @nikita__kuzmin Trillyyyyyy."

Sarah was quick to respond, as she told him: "Love you Vito," while fans of the pair rushed to share their support as well as gush over their 'beautiful friendship' and praised their 'incredible' journey.