A Spanish court has ordered the tax authorities to refund $64 million—funds previously collected as a fine—to the world-renowned pop star Shakira. This substantial fine was imposed on Shakira in 2021. Under Spanish regulations, an individual is subject to taxation if they reside in the country for more than 183 days. The tax authorities had levied this fine against Shakira on the grounds that she had resided in Spain for 183 days in 2011 but failed to pay taxes.
However, Shakira successfully demonstrated to the court that she had actually stayed in Spain for only 163 days that year, and that her residency status was therefore not subject to taxation. This news was reported by CNN Online. Following the verdict, the Colombian pop star expressed her elation.
She stated that this historic ruling marks the end of an ordeal that has dragged on for eight years. “The attempts to destroy my reputation, the sleepless days, and the physical and mental anguish that my family and I have had to endure—all of that comes to an end today.”
“Throughout the course of this case, my public profile was exploited to intimidate ordinary taxpayers. Today, every one of those allegations has been proven false.” This verdict comes at a time when Shakira is preparing to conclude her ‘Women Don’t Cry’ Animo Tour in Madrid.
