Shakira wins legal battle over tax evasion charges in Spain

Spanish authorities have concluded their tax evasion investigation against international pop star Shakira, stating that there is insufficient evidence to proceed with the case.

Initiated in July, the investigation accused Shakira of avoiding payment of €6.6 million in taxes for the year 2018 by allegedly using offshore companies and tax havens, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

Upon reviewing the case, prosecutors determined the evidence was not robust enough to uphold criminal charges. In response to the decision, Shakira’s legal team expressed relief and satisfaction, emphasizing that the dismissal reaffirms her innocence. “This decision vindicates Shakira from any allegations of fraudulent behavior,” said Pau Molins, Shakira’s defense attorney, who also criticized what he termed a “smear campaign” by the tax authorities.

While this legal battle has concluded favorably for Shakira, she continues to face administrative inquiries regarding her residency status in Spain, particularly the details of her stays in the country during 2011. Her lawyers maintain that she was in Spain for only 70 days that year, which is below the threshold that obligates her to pay taxes.

Shakira had previously been embroiled in tax disputes for the years 2012 and 2014. To resolve these issues, she chose to pay fines amounting to millions of euros, avoiding further legal complications and potential jail time.

Now living in Miami with her two children, Shakira is focusing on her music career while dealing with these ongoing legal matters. Her former partner, footballer Gerard Pique, has also faced similar tax-related issues in Spain.