Pop sensation Shakira has reached an agreement with Spanish tax authorities, sidestepping a scheduled €14.5 million trial. The Colombian star attended court and opted to pay a €7 million fine, waving to onlookers as she entered for the brief hearing. Confirming her acknowledgment of not paying taxes to the Spanish government, she received a suspended three-year sentence.
Shakira, who expressed a commitment to doing what is right, noted her desire to move past the stress associated with the case. The resolution led to the cancellation of a trial that anticipated multiple witnesses and dropped prosecutors' request for an eight-year jail term.
As reported by SkyNews, the singer, known for hits like "Hips Don't Lie," explained that her decision aimed to prioritize her children's well-being. With two sons from her former partner, Gerard Pique, she emphasized her legal team's confidence in a favorable court ruling.
Facing six counts of failing to pay €14.5 million in taxes between 2012 and 2014, the case focused on Shakira's residency during that period. The defense argued that spending less than 60 days a year in Spain meant she shouldn't be considered a fiscal resident.
In her statement, Shakira mentioned seeking advice from renowned tax authorities and lamented the drain on energy and time caused by Spain's pursuit of the case. Despite acknowledging those who fight such injustices, she emphasized that, for her, winning means reclaiming time for her kids and career.
The resolution follows Shakira's recent success at the Latin Grammys, where she won three awards. While the tax evasion case for the years 2012–2014 is settled, the singer still faces separate charges of €6.7 million for tax evasion in 2018, with ongoing efforts to reach a resolution.
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