Shakira Resolves Spanish Tax Fraud Case with Settlement

Colombian pop star Shakira has reached a settlement with Spanish prosecutors in a tax fraud case, just as her trial was set to begin. The singer, who was facing allegations of tax fraud amounting to €14.5 million, was at risk of an eight-year prison sentence and a fine of €23.8 million if found guilty. Shakira has consistently denied any wrongdoing and stated that she settled the case in the "best interest of my kids." She explained that her children did not want to see her sacrifice her well-being in the legal battle. The artist had previously rejected a deal from prosecutors and opted for a trial instead. The major issue in this case revolves around Shakira's residency status between 2012 and 2014. Spanish prosecutors claimed that she was living in Spain during this time but listed her official residence elsewhere. Shakira asserted that Spain was not her main place of residence and rejected the authorities' claims. The singer announced that she has paid €17.2 million in taxes and has no outstanding debts. Shakira's former partner, Barcelona footballer Gerard Piqué, was also fined €2.1 million by the Spanish national court in a separate tax evasion case from 2008 to 2010. The couple, who have two sons together, recently announced their split after 11 years.