Spanish courts have ruled Shakira must stand trial for tax evasion. The Colombian singer, 45, faces up to eight years in prison if convicted.
In response to the accusations, Shakira has categorically denied them. ‘Wherever, Whenever’ singer has been accused of defrauding Spanish tax authorities of €14.5 million (£12.2 million) on her 2012-2014 earnings.
The Esplugues de Llobregat court confirmed on Tuesday that the trial would take place on a date to be determined.
During the period of 2012 and 2014, the singer said she was living a “nomadic life” because of her work, a period during which she was accused of failing to pay taxes.
“The order to send Shakira to trial is just another step in any proceedings of this kind. The situation has not changed and everything continues as normal. Shakira’s legal defence will do its job by presenting its written arguments at the appropriate time,” her lawyers said in a statement.
According to Shakira, the Spanish tax office filed a lawsuit against her before she had already paid what they said she owed. She vowed last week to fight what she believes to be “false” accusations by Spanish authorities.
Earlier this year, Colombian singer Shakira and Barcelona star Gerard Pique announced their split. Following an 11-year relationship and two children, Shakira, 45, confirms that she is no longer living with her 35-year-old footballer beau.
The singer’s communication agency released a brief statement that said: “We regret to confirm that we are parting ways. For the well-being of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect their privacy. Thank you for your understanding.”
Earlier this year, the Barcelona player, who won the World Cup with Spain in 2010, was caught spending time with another woman.
Following Pique’s eviction from the family home, the couple was reported to have been living separately for a few weeks. His bachelor pad is a bachelor pad and he lives a “party lifestyle” since the split, according to El Periodico.
Furthermore, it has been reported that the Spain international has been frequenting nightclubs with his teammate Riqui Puig and his group of friends, often returning home as late as two or three in the morning.