Gerard Piqué and Shakira spent over a decade as one of the most visible power couples in global entertainment and sport. Even though they never married, public fascination routinely cast the Spanish footballer as Shakira's partner, leading to persistent searches about his background, career, and high-profile separation.
Long before their split dominated international headlines, Piqué built a legendary career as a central defender for FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team. This article breaks down his football achievements, his twelve-year relationship with Shakira, the realities of their separation, and his current business ventures.
Who Is Gerard Piqué?
Gerard Piqué Bernabéu was born on February 2, 1987, in Barcelona, Spain. He grew up in a prominent Catalan family; his grandfather, Amador Bernabéu, served as a former vice-president of FC Barcelona. Piqué joined Barcelona's youth academy, La Masia, at a young age before moving to Manchester United in 2004.
During his time in England, he won the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League, though his defining club legacy belongs to his return to Barcelona in 2008. Under managers like Pep Guardiola, Piqué became an anchor of a golden era for both club and country. He won multiple La Liga titles and Champions League trophies, alongside winning the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2012 UEFA European Championship with Spain. More information regarding the matter are detailed by Associated Press.
How Gerard Piqué and Shakira Met
The couple crossed paths in early 2010 while filming the music video for "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)," Shakira's official anthem for the 2010 World Cup. Piqué appeared in the video alongside several other players.
What started as an acquaintance grew into a relationship, which they confirmed publicly in 2011. For the next twelve years, they lived primarily in Barcelona. They welcomed two sons, Milan in January 2013 and Sasha in January 2015. Despite frequent media speculation regarding marriage, Shakira openly stated in interviews that she preferred maintaining the dynamic of a girlfriend and partner rather than a wife.
The Separation and Aftermath
In June 2022, the couple released a joint statement confirming they were ending their relationship. The announcement triggered intense media scrutiny, driven by widespread reports of infidelity and public interest in how they would divide their lives and assets.
Following months of negotiations, Shakira relocated to Miami with their two sons in early 2023, establishing a co-parenting arrangement. Shakira channeled the emotional fallout into her music, releasing chart-topping tracks that resonated globally. Piqué remained in Spain, focusing on his post-football career and public relationship with Clara Chia Marti.
Business Ventures and the Kings League
Piqué retired from professional football in November 2022, ending his career mid-season with Barcelona. Rather than stepping away from the spotlight, he transitioned full-time into sports entrepreneurship through his media company, Kosmos Holding.
His most prominent modern venture is the Kings League, a seven-a-side football tournament featuring modified rules, streaming integration, and celebrity presidents. The league expanded rapidly across Spain and Latin America, attracting millions of digital viewers and reshaping how younger audiences consume sports media.
Frequently Asked Questions
Were Gerard Piqué and Shakira married?
No. They were partners for twelve years and shared two children, but they never legally married. Shakira noted in interviews that avoiding marriage kept their dynamic fresh.
How many children do they share?
They have two sons, Milan (born 2013) and Sasha (born 2015). Both children moved to Miami with Shakira following the separation agreement.
When did Gerard Piqué retire from football?
Piqué officially retired from professional football in November 2022 during his final season with FC Barcelona.
What is Gerard Piqué doing now?
He manages Kosmos Holding and oversees the Kings League, an alternative digital football competition that streams globally.
