Spain’s National Court reportedly acquitted Shakira in a $69 million tax fraud case originally launched against the star in 2018.
Tax authorities alleged Shakira spent enough time in Spanish territory to be considered a tax resident in 2011, a claim the court sided against, Billboard reported, citing a judicial document. The court ordered the government to return approximately 60 million euros, the equivalent of over $69 million U.S., to the singer. The defense said the court ruled that she be paid approximately $70 million with interest included, Reuters reported.
The tax agency said it intend to appeal the decision the Supreme Court and the payment would be withheld until the definitive ruling. Officials originally charged her in the case in 2018, according to Page Six.
“After more than eight years enduring brutal public accusations and sleepless nights that took a toll on my health and my family’s well-being, the National Court has finally set the record straight,” read a statement from Shakira, according to Billboard.
Shakira’s statement continued, “There was never any fraud, and the Administration itself was never able to prove otherwise.”
Tax authorities reportedly failed to prove their allegations that Shakira owed taxes in Spain on her income via her 2011 word tour, where she had performances across 120 concerts in 37 countries. Prosecutors argued that Spain was the main center of the star’s economic activities, but the court disagreed and ruled that she did not meet the minimum residency requirement to be taxed in Spain. The court ultimately ruled in Shakira’s favor and ordered payment of interest and legal costs.
Calling the matter an “eight-year-ordeal,” Shakira’s lawyer, José Luis Prada, credited Shakira for having “the strength and resources to see it through to the end.”
Luis Prada said the litigation process “suffocates many anonymous taxpayers who lack the resources to defend themselves,” according to Billboard.
The famous Colombian singer said she hopes the court’s decision “sets a precedent” for others facing similar situations with Spain’s Tax Agency.
Shakira reached an agreement with Spanish authorities in November 2023, on a separate case involving unpaid taxes between 2012-2014, according to Billboard. She acknowledged six charges tied to unpaid taxes, was fined $7.6 million and recieved a suspended sentences of three years. (RELATED: Shakira Accepts Plea Deal In Tax Fraud Case, Agrees To Pay Millions)
Shakira wrapped a free concert for 2.5 million people at the Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro and is preparing for the halftime show at the FIFA World Cup 2026 final where she is slated to perform with BTS and Madonna.