Shakira Explains Why She Settled Spanish Tax Fraud Case Instead of Fighting It in Court

Shakira settled her tax fraud case in Spain, a day before the trial was set to begin on Monday, November 20. As part of the settlement, the Colombian star accepted the charges and a fine of half the amount owed, approximately $7.3 million euros (close to 8 million dollars).

Decked out in a pink suit, the singer made a brief appearance in court, where Judge José Manuel del Amo asked her if she recognized the six counts of failing to pay the Spanish government 14.5 million euros (about $15.8 million) in taxes and to confirm to the new penalties requested. The singer responded in the affirmative. 

Shakira later released a statement to Variety, that said: “While I was determined to defend my innocence in a trial that my lawyers were confident would have ruled in my favor, I have made the decision to finally resolve this matter with the best interest of my kids at heart who do not want to see their mom sacrifice her personal well-being in this fight.”

“I need to move past the stress and emotional toll of the last several years and focus on the things I love — my kids and all the opportunities to come in my career, including my upcoming world tour and my new album, both of which I am extremely excited about,” the statement continued. “I admire tremendously those who have fought these injustices to the end, but for me, today, winning is getting my time back for my kids and my career.”

In addition to the 7.3 million dollars fine, Shakira will pay an extra 438,000 thousand euros (a little over 479,000 thousand dollars) to avoid a three-year prison sentence. 

The Colombian singer also won Two Latin Grammys on Thursday night, in a ceremony that took place in Seville, Spain.