Shakira has been acquitted in a long-running tax fraud case in Spain after the country’s High Court overturned a $64 million fine against the global music star.
Court Rejects Tax Fraud Allegations
Spanish authorities had accused Shakira of being a tax resident in Spain in 2011, arguing she spent more than 183 days in the country while in a relationship with former FC Barcelona player Gerard Piqué.
However, the court ruled officials failed to prove the singer met the residency requirement that would have obligated her to pay Spanish income taxes that year.
A representative for Shakira said the ruling means the Spanish government now owes her nearly $70 million.
Shakira Speaks Out After Ruling
In a lengthy statement, the Queen of Latin music said the eight-year legal battle damaged her health, reputation, and family life.
“There was never any fraud,” the Grammy-winning singer said, accusing authorities of treating her as guilty before proving wrongdoing.
She also said she hopes the ruling sets a precedent for other taxpayers facing similar investigations.
Lawyer Criticizes Spanish Authorities
Shakira’s attorney, José Luis Prada, called the case an example of a “highly flawed administrative practice” and said the ordeal placed an “unacceptable toll” on the singer.
He added that many ordinary taxpayers lack the resources to fight lengthy legal battles against the government.
Separate Tax Case Previously Settled
In 2023, Shakira settled another Spanish tax case involving income from 2012 to 2014. She agreed to pay a $7.5 million fine to avoid a possible prison sentence, while continuing to deny wrongdoing.
A separate investigation tied to her 2018 taxes was later dropped in 2024.
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