Shakira acquitted by Spanish court, over $64M in fines to be returned

A Spanish court has acquitted Colombian superstar Shakira in a long-running tax fraud case, ordering the government to return more than €55 million (US$64 million) in fines paid, plus interest. The decision, issued by a Madrid-based court, overturns previous penalties related to the 2011 tax year. Spanish tax authorities had argued that Shakira was a resident due to her relationship with former soccer player Gerard Piqué and her economic ties to the country. However, the court found that the tax agency failed to meet the legal threshold for residency: spending more than 183 days in Spain. Evidence showed Shakira was present for only 163 days that year, insufficient under Spanish law.

The ruling marks a significant legal victory for the singer, who has faced multiple tax disputes in Spain over the past decade. The refund covers the original tax amount plus accumulated interest, though specific figures were not disclosed. Shakira's legal team welcomed the decision, emphasizing that the court upheld strict residency criteria. The case highlights ongoing tensions between Spanish tax authorities and high-profile individuals, with implications for residency definitions and international tax compliance. The refund process will now commence, though further appeals by the tax agency remain possible.