Colombian pop sensation Shakira is once again facing tax evasion charges in Spain, with prosecutors alleging that she failed to pay €6.7 million ($7.1 million) in taxes on her 2018 income. This marks the second instance of Shakira being charged with tax evasion by Spanish authorities.
Offshore Tax Scheme
The new charges are centered around allegations that Shakira used an offshore company based in a tax haven to evade her tax obligations in Spain. The prosecutors claim that she did not declare millions in advance payments related to her El Dorado World Tour and other sources of income.
Shakira, who now resides in Miami, is already set to face trial later this year for tax evasion charges related to the years 2012 to 2014. These charges accuse her of residing in Spain for a significant portion of that time without paying the corresponding taxes, totaling $15.3 million.
Maintaining Innocence
Despite the legal challenges, Shakira has consistently maintained her innocence. Her representatives have highlighted her cooperation with tax authorities and the guidance provided by PriceWaterhouse Coopers, a renowned tax firm. They assert that the Spanish Tax Office’s continued pursuit of baseless cases violates her rights and express confidence in her acquittal through the judicial process.
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Shakira’s legal battles in Spain have drawn comparisons to similar high-profile cases involving prominent figures like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who faced tax evasion allegations in the country in recent years.
Miami Legal Team
Shakira’s legal team in Miami is currently focused on her impending trial for the 2012-2014 fiscal years. The addition of new tax evasion charges related to 2018 has further complicated her legal situation in Spain.
As the legal proceedings continue, Shakira’s tax affairs remain under scrutiny, adding another layer of complexity to her ongoing legal battles in Spain.