Shakira to split with Gerard Pique after she releases statement on cheat claims

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Shakira has announced that she and long-term partner Gerard Pique are splitting up following reports that the Barcelona defender was caught cheating.

In a statement released by her communication agency on Saturday, the Colombian singer 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."

The pair had been together for 11 years, having first met in 2010 while filming the music video for Shakira's hit 'Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).

It's understood that Pique, 35, has left the family home where Shakira, 45, and their two children, Milan and Sasha, have remained, and he is currently living by himself.

Rumours on social media claimed that the woman Pique had slept with was the mother of his Barcelona team-mate Gavi, though these reports have since been debunked.

As per Spanish outlet Marca, neither Pique nor Shakira is interested in taking money from the other and their sole focus is to ensure the best outcome for their children. Reports in Spain also claim that the pop star is considering leaving the country as she has "no friends or family" in Barcelona that aren't Pique's.

Three weeks ago, Shakira posted an adorable photo of herself with her two children kissing her cheeks on Instagram for Mother's Day, commenting: "With one kiss they can cure it all and make it worth your while to keep fighting for them. Happy Mother’s Day."

Earlier this year, Pique risked the wrath of his girlfriend by claiming that getting booed by Espanyol supporters was "better than sex"

He said in an interview with YouTuber Jordi Wild: "I'm happy that Espanyol has been promoted to the first division because that's how we play in their stadium. I like to go there, I get whistled at all the time. You laugh and the fans get even madder.

"There is nothing comparable in the world. I would say it's better than sex. I enjoy it a lot more than playing against Real Madrid."

Pique made his 600th appearance for Barcelona in March and is showing little signs of slowing down, having played 40 games for the Catalan club last season.

• Barcelona FC
• Shakira

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