Shakira Settles Tax Fraud Case with Spanish Authorities Shortly Before Trial
Colombian pop sensation Shakira has reached an eleventh-hour agreement with Spanish prosecutors to settle a tax fraud case, averting a trial that was scheduled to commence today. The singer, known for hits like "Hips Don't Lie," faced allegations of failing to pay €14.5m (£12.9m) in taxes in Spain between 2012 and 2014.
Instead of heading to court, Shakira agreed to pay a fine of €7m (£6.1m), signalling the end of a legal battle that threatened to last several weeks. In a statement, the artist expressed her commitment to doing "what's right" and serving as a positive example. She clarified her decision to settle, stating, "I have made the decision to finally resolve this matter with the best interest of my kids at heart who do not want to see their mom sacrifice her personal well-being in this fight."
The tax dispute centred around Shakira's residency status during the contentious period, with prosecutors claiming she lived in Spain but officially listed her residence elsewhere. In defence, Shakira maintained that Spain was not her primary residence during those years, emphasising her substantial international touring schedule.
Shakira's legal team had initially rejected a settlement, instead opting for a trial. However, the artist ultimately chose resolution over a protracted legal battle. Notably, Shakira cited the impact on her children and her desire to focus on her career, including an upcoming world tour and a new album.
The settlement echoes a broader trend of Spanish tax authorities targeting high-profile figures, as seen in cases involving Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. In 2017, Messi's prison sentence for tax fraud was converted to a fine, while Ronaldo resolved his case in 2019 with a guilty plea and a substantial financial penalty.
