Shakira breathes easier in Miami: Charges against her in Spain are dropped as Piqué faces soccer scandal

MIAMI - Spanish prosecutors have requested the dismissal of a tax fraud case against Colombian pop star Shakira, underscoring a lack of sufficient evidence to pursue charges. This decision, announced on Wednesday, closes the final chapter in the singer's complex dealings with Spanish tax authorities, which have garnered widespread media attention.

There is no doubt that La Loba is breathing a little bit easier in her home in Miami. Her ex is not.

The case in question, opened in July by a court on the outskirts of Barcelona -where Shakira was living with her now-ex-partner Gerard Piqué and their children, revolved around allegations that the artist had improperly declared her income tax and wealth tax for the fiscal year 2018.

However, following a careful review, the Public Prosecutor's Office stated, "There are not enough indications" to criminally prosecute the singer for these accusations, suggesting a possible end to her legal woes on this front.

Shakira's woes with the Spanish courts

This move comes after Shakira's proactive approach last August, when she paid approximately 7 million euros ($6.6 million) to the Spanish tax authorities. This payment was intended to correct her tax status, covering the owed amount plus interest and regularization fees. Her willingness to settle her fiscal obligations reflects her commitment to resolving these issues amicably.

Shakira's legal battles with Spanish tax authorities began in earnest with a separate case concerning alleged tax evasion during the years 2012, 2013, and 2014. This earlier issue culminated in November, when Shakira made a court appearance in Barcelona. In a dramatic turn of events, she reached a last-minute agreement with the prosecution, thus avoiding a highly publicized trial. By acknowledging the charges and agreeing to pay over seven million euros, Shakira managed to settle the case amicably.

For that first case, Shakira had already made a substantial payment of 17.45 million euros to address the discrepancies related to her tax filings in Spain for 2012, 2013, and 2014. These actions highlight her efforts to rectify her fiscal responsibilities after her relocation to Spain.

Piqué's legal problems

In contrast, Gerard Piqué is currently under investigation by Spanish authorities concerning his company's involvement in the deal to move the iconic match Spanish Super Cup to Saudi Arabia.

The investigation focuses on potential irregularities and "gifts" sent to Luis Rubiales, a key and now dark figure in Spanish fútbol, to secure the relocation of the tournament back in 2020. This has led to scrutiny over Piqué's actions and his company's role in this significant shift in Spanish soccer logistics​.

Rubiales is the same Spanish soccer executive who was dismissed and may face prison after grabbing and kissing a player in the Spanish's national female soccer team.