Spain Presses Second Tax Evasion Charge Against Pop Star Shakira, Seeks Over $7 Million

Spain Presses Second Tax Evasion Charge Against Pop Star Shakira, Seeks Over $7 Million

Colombian pop sensation, Shakira, is once again under the spotlight for alleged tax evasion. Spanish prosecutors have charged her with failing to pay €6.7 million ($7.1 million) in taxes for the year 2018. The singer, currently based in Miami, has been notified of these charges. The allegations include the use of an offshore company in a tax haven to bypass the due tax payments.

This is not the first time Shakira has faced such charges. She is also scheduled to stand trial on November 20th in Barcelona for a separate case. This case pertains to her residency between 2012 and 2014, where prosecutors allege that she failed to pay €14.5 million ($15.4 million) in taxes. Despite her official residence being in the Bahamas, they claim that she spent more than half of her time in Spain, and thus, should have paid taxes there.

Details of the New Case

The present case against Shakira was initiated by Spanish tax officials in July. After a thorough review of evidence collected over two months, they decided to levy charges. However, a trial date is yet to be set. Shakira’s former public relations firm, Llorente y Cuenca, has not commented on these charges. They previously stated in July that Shakira has always acted in accordance with the law and followed the advice of her financial advisors.

Shakira’s Connection to Spain

The “Hips Don’t Lie” singer has had a strong connection to Spain since she started dating the now-retired soccer player Gerard Piqué. The couple, who have two children together, lived in Barcelona until they ended their 11-year relationship last year.

Crackdown on Tax Evasion in Spain

Over the past decade, Spanish tax authorities have been stringent in pursuing tax evasion, especially among high-profile personalities. Soccer stars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have also been pursued for not fully paying their taxes. Despite being found guilty of tax evasion, both players avoided prison time due to a provision that allows judges to waive sentences under two years for first-time offenders.

This ongoing saga of tax evasion allegations against Shakira puts her in the company of these football stars, raising questions about the tax practices of high-profile individuals in Spain. As the case against Shakira proceeds, it remains to be seen what the outcome will be and how it will impact her career and reputation.