‘There Was Never Any Fraud’: How Shakira Won a Stunning $64 Million Refund in Spain

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Q1: Why did Shakira accept an initial plea deal in 2023 if she was innocent?
A1: Shakira stated publicly that she entered the initial November 2023 agreement solely to spare her two sons an emotionally damaging public criminal trial. Entering the agreement allowed her to avoid the risk of immediate incarceration while her legal counsel continued pursuing administrative and constitutional appeals against the state's claims.

Q2: Exactly how much money must the Spanish government return to Shakira?
A2: The court determined that the Spanish government must return roughly $64 million in previously deposited funds, penalties, and held assets. When statutory interest and related legal disbursements are added, financial monitors estimate the total payout will approach $70 million.

Q3: Does Shakira still face active tax investigations in Spain?
A3: No. The definitive rulings in 2024 and 2026 extinguished the outstanding inquiries regarding her 2012, 2014 and 2018 tax returns. Shakira relocated her permanent home to Miami, Florida in 2023, severing all remaining residential ties to the Spanish tax system.