Spain's National Court acquitted Shakira on Monday of alleged 2011 tax fraud charges brought by the Tax Agency. The singer is set to receive a refund of 55 million euros plus late-payment interest.
The ruling found that the artist did not have tax residence in Spain in 2011 despite her relationship with footballer Gerard Piqué. The Tax Agency had demanded payment of dues and penalties for that year, which must now be returned.
Shakira stated that fraud never existed and criticized the reputational harm endured for over eight years. She said the decision sets a precedent against the presumption of guilt applied by the administration.
The Tax Agency plans to appeal to the Supreme Court. Groups including the Robert Amsterdam firm and Movimiento Contribuyentes en Acción viewed the ruling as an example of excesses by the Spanish tax authority.
