Shakira Wins €60 Million Tax Refund Battle in Spain: Court Rules in Her Favor
Shakira has won a significant legal battle in Spain, where she will receive a €60 million refund following a court ruling in her favor regarding her taxes. The Spanish National High Court determined that the tax agency failed to prove that Shakira spent the required 183 days in Spain in 2011 to pay personal income tax. The refund includes taxes, fines, and interest. Shakira expressed relief and vindication after enduring years of public scrutiny and health impacts due to the case.
During the legal proceedings, Spanish authorities attempted to link Shakira to Spain through her relationship with soccer player Gerard Piqué, but the court dismissed this argument, stating that their relationship did not constitute residency. The court also found that Spain was not the primary center of Shakira's business activities in 2011, as the tax authority failed to provide sufficient evidence. Shakira highlighted her extensive touring schedule in 2011 as further proof of her limited time in Spain.
Despite the court's ruling in her favor, the tax authority plans to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court, delaying any payment until a final resolution is reached. Shakira emphasized the impact of the case on her reputation and the unfair treatment she faced throughout the process. She hopes that her victory will set a precedent for others facing similar challenges with tax authorities and the legal system.
Shakira has dealt with previous tax cases in Spain, including settling a fraud case in 2023 with a suspended sentence and a fine for alleged income tax evasion. Another investigation in 2018 did not result in additional charges due to insufficient evidence. The recent court ruling marks a significant win for Shakira, who continues to navigate legal challenges related to her finances in Spain.