Shakira (49), the renowned pop star, has emerged victorious in her lengthy tax fraud case, leading to a substantial payout of over $97 million. This amount includes the reimbursement of an $89.4 million fine imposed in 2021, along with additional sums for fines and interest. The National High Court ruled that Spanish authorities failed to demonstrate that Shakira spent more than 183 days in Spain, which is crucial for determining tax residency. Celebrating her acquittal, Shakira stated, 'there was never any fraud,' expressing relief after enduring an 'eight-year ordeal' that affected her health and family. Despite this victory, the Spanish tax agency plans to appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court, delaying the payout. Shakira's legal troubles began with her indictment in 2018, and she had previously settled with the government for $20 million during her trial in November 2023, prioritizing her children’s wellbeing over the prolonged legal fight. In addition to her legal issues, Shakira is set to perform at the FIFA World Cup 2026 halftime show alongside Madonna and K-pop group BTS, although some fans have expressed dissatisfaction with the decision.