Shakira is currently in legal jeopardy. She is facing a potential eight-year prison sentence as she stands accused of tax fraud in Spain. Spanish prosecutors have leveled these allegations against the renowned ‘Waka Waka’ artist, claiming that she failed to pay €6.7 million (£5.8 million) in taxes on her income for the year 2018.
These charges add to a preexisting €14.5 million (£12.6 million) tax fraud case for which Shakira is set to go on trial later this year, scheduled for November 20th in Barcelona. This case revolves around the question of her residency between 2012 and 2014.
Prosecutors in Barcelona have contended that the Grammy-winning artist spent the majority of the period from 2012 to 2014 in Spain. Thus implying that she should have been liable for taxes in the country. Despite her official residence being in the Bahamas.
What exactly is this about?
After around 200 witnesses testified, a trial date for Shakira’s fraud case was established. The trial is scheduled to commence on November 20 and is expected to span 12 sessions, concluding on December 14, considering some non-court days.
While Gerard Piqué, Shakira’s ex, is not likely to be called as a witness, Shakira herself is expected to be summoned. After her testimony from the witness stand during the trial’s opening proceedings, she may be permitted to depart. The announcement of the trial date came shortly after Gerard Piqué arrived in Miami. Marking his first trip to the United States since they relocated from Spain.
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In response to these allegations, a representative for Shakira issued a statement in July
Shakira’s publicist, LLYC, issued a statement in November saying, “Shakira is a taxpayer who has always demonstrated impeccable tax conduct and has never had tax problems in any other jurisdiction. She never exceeded the 183 days of presence in Spain required to be a tax resident,” it stated.
“With no solid evidence to back up the charges against her, she has been relentlessly pursued in the criminal and media spheres. Employing unacceptable methods to harm her reputation and force her to reach a settlement agreement.”
Asserting that she had consistently conducted herself in accordance with the law and under the guidance of her financial advisors. They added: “She is now focused on her life as an artist in Miami and is confident that there will be a favorable resolution of her tax issues.” Barcelona prosecutors have alleged that Shakira employed an offshore company situated in a tax haven to evade paying taxes. As stated in an official announcement.
Shakira was informed of these fresh charges in Miami, her current place of residence
The case against her was initiated by Spanish tax authorities in July, and following a two-month review of the collected evidence, prosecutors have decided to press charges. A trial date has not been established at this time. The public relations firm that formerly managed Shakira’s affairs, Llorente y Cuenca, has not issued an immediate response to these developments.
Shakira, whose full name is Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, has been closely associated with Spain, particularly since her relationship with the now-retired football player Gerard Piqué. In June 2022, Shakira publicly confirmed her separation from Piqué after more than a decade together. During this they lived in Barcelona until the previous year.
A statement from the singer’s agency reads: “We regret to confirm that we are parting ways. For the well-being of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect their privacy. Thank you for your understanding.”
Never married, but strong for 11 years
Shakira, who is 46, and Gerard Piqué, 36, have been in a relationship since 2010. During their time together, they became parents to two sons named Milan and Sasha. Despite their 11-year-long relationship, Shakira and Gerard Piqué never tied the knot.
In an interview with Elle magazine about the breakup, Shakira shared her thoughts and feelings: “Oh, this is really hard to talk about personally, especially as this is the first time I’ve ever addressed this situation in an interview. I’ve remained quiet and just tried to process it all.” She continued: “It’s been tough not only for me but also for my kids. Incredibly difficult.“
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Sources
- “Fans react as Beyoncé announces she’s going on world tour.” Tyla. Rhiannon Ingle. September 26, 2023
- “Is Shakira going to jail for 8 years? Tax evasion case takes a turn.” Pink Villa. Akanksha Verma. April 30, 2023.