Shakira was filled with delight as she soaked up the sights at the star-studded annual event, Art Basel. The famous Colombian singer, who is reportedly working on an exciting documentary, was seen happily posing with her fans at the VIP entrance of the Miami Beach Convention Center on Wednesday. She showcased her inner fashionista by donning a stylish fitted turtleneck top, sleek leather trousers, and eye-catching heels with a unique transparent heel. To accessorize, the 46-year-old singer chose glossy tortoise shades and a delicate Burberry purse to enhance her ensemble. Her glossy brunette locks cascaded down in loose waves, elegantly parted at the center.
Shakira was thrilled as she enjoyed the glamorous atmosphere of Art Basel in Miami, a star-studded event. This comes after Shakira reached an agreement with Spanish authorities to avoid a trial in Barcelona regarding allegations of tax evasion amounting to £12.5 million (€14.5m) from her earnings between 2012 and 2014.
The prosecutors had initially sought a prison sentence of eight years and two months, along with a fine of £21 million (€24m) for the renowned singer who has captivated fans worldwide with her music in various genres, both in Spanish and English.
However, it is reported that she had already fully repaid the amount in question, along with an additional £2.6 million (€3m) in interest. The court imposed a fine of £6.4 million (€7.3m), and Shakira will pay £378,000 (€432,000) to avoid imprisonment. Overall, she will have paid or will pay a total sum of approximately £21.8 million (€25m) to Spanish authorities.
While these sums may seem exorbitant to most people, they only represent a small portion of Shakira’s estimated net worth, which is around £240 million ($300m or €274m). According to her statement, she views this amount as a price worth paying to protect her children from witnessing their mother’s sacrifice and to spare them the anguish of a lengthy trial and potential jail time.
She expressed in her lengthy statement, released through her PR representatives following the settlement, that her main priority at the moment is ensuring her children have a fulfilling life and that she can dedicate her time to watching them grow and spending quality time with them. She made this decision for her children, as they themselves requested it, wanting to shield them from the distress caused by seeing their mother go through a court trial.
On Wednesday, the popular Colombian singer, who is 46 years old, delighted her fans by graciously posing with them at the VIP entrance of the Miami Beach Convention Center.
With her rebellious top, sleek leather pants, and bold heels, the singer exuded the aura of a true rock icon.
After enduring a series of challenging moments, my utmost desire is for my loved ones to witness my newfound happiness and share in a hopeful future. In a critical stance towards the Spanish tax system, I strongly believe that it urgently requires a thorough revision for the betterment of its citizens. Rest assured, I will remain a steadfast advocate to ensure that this necessary reform takes place.
It deeply saddens me to witness numerous individuals who simply cannot afford proficient defense attorneys or even reach a fair settlement, ultimately leading to the crumbling of their lives due to discrepancies with the Spanish Treasury. Reflecting on my own personal journey to clear my name, I cannot overstate the tremendous amount of wasted time and resources. Nevertheless, I remained resolute and prepared to face a trial, determined to defend my innocence.
Following an agreement reached between Shakira and Spanish authorities just recently, the famed singer managed to evade a potentially grueling trial in Barcelona. The allegations against her revolved around the accusation of not fulfilling her tax duties, amounting to a substantial sum of £12.5 million (€14.5m).
“My lawyers were absolutely certain that our case was strong and would lead us to victory.
“Nevertheless, it has been an arduous battle spanning several years that has led me to make this decision.
“I had two choices: either continue with the fight, sacrificing my happiness and that of my children, putting a halt to my musical creations, albums, and tours, and being unable to fully enjoy my career and passions, or make a compromise, close this chapter of my life, and move forward.
“After careful consideration, I have come to realize that winning is not truly a triumph if it means sacrificing so many precious years of my life.”
