Shakira Jumped Through More Hoops Than the NBA to Escape $15M Tax Fraud Trial
Global pop icon Shakira reached a settlement on Monday to avoid standing trial in Spain for alleged tax evasion. Prosecutors charged the singer failed to pay 14.5 million euros ($15.7 million) in taxes between 2012 and 2014.
As part of the deal, Shakira pleaded guilty to the tax fraud charges and agreed to pay over 7 million euros in back taxes and fines. The settlement also included another 438,000 euro penalty to skirt a potential three-year prison sentence.
Why did Shakira decide to settle?
According to Reuters, in a statement, Shakira cited “personal, emotional and sentimental reasons” for settling instead of fighting the charges in court.
“I have reached the conclusion that winning is not a victory if the price is that they rob you of so many years of your life,” said the singer, who recently split from longtime partner Gerard Pique.
Shakira maintained her innocence but said she prioritized her family and career over a lengthy legal battle.
“This decision responds to personal reasons and I am confident I have sufficient evidence to support and prove my innocence,” she told the judge.
What were the original charges against Shakira?
Spanish tax authorities alleged the Hips Don’t Lie singer spent over half of 2012-2014 living in Spain but failed to pay taxes in the country. They sought up to eight years of prison time.
Prosecutors claimed Shakira was a Spanish resident based on the 2012 purchase of a Barcelona home she shared with Pique. But the singer disputed that she spent enough time in Spain to qualify as a resident for tax purposes.
Is Spain cracking down on celebrity tax evasion?
Shakira is the latest in a string of high-profile tax evasion cases in Spain. Soccer stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Diego Costa have also faced multi-million euro charges. All opted to settle and pay hefty fines rather than face trial.
Unlike those athletes, Shakira maintained her innocence even while settling. But her decision to avoid court aligns with a pattern of Spanish authorities pursuing – and often securing big payments from – celebrity tax cases.
By accepting the charges and fines, has Shakira essentially pleaded guilty to tax evasion? And what message does her settlement send? Those questions remain despite the deal resolving her lengthy legal limbo.
