Shakira first met Spanish footballer Gerard Pique in 2010 when he appeared in one of her music videos
(Picture: AFP via Getty Images)Shakira has gained primary custody of her and Gerard Pique’s two children.
"We have signed a custody agreement," Shakira, 45, and Pique, 35, who split earlier this year after 11 years together, said in a joint statement on Tuesday.
"Our sole objective is to provide our children with the utmost security and protection and hope that they can continue with their lives in a safe and calm environment."
A source close to the pop star confirmed to ABC News that the couple’s sons Milan, nine, and Sasha, seven, would move from their father’s hometown of Barcelona to Miami, where Shakira’s family is based.
The source said the arrangement was the best one for the children and that the couple wanted to avoid a lengthy legal battle.
Colombian singer Shakira first met Spanish footballer Pique in 2010 when he appeared in one of her music videos. They announced their split in June through a joint statement.
"We regret to confirm that we are separating," the statement read.
"For the well-being of our children, who are our highest priority, we ask that you respect our privacy. Thank you for your understanding."
It was signed: "Shakira and Gerard".
Catalan daily El Periodico reported the length of time Pique, who announced his retirement from football last week, would spend with his children. "Gerard Pique will have his children 10 days a month and the entirety of the three holiday periods that govern the United States, apart from Christmas and the summer holidays, starting next year,” it said.
"This Christmas they will alternate custody at 50% following the calendar of the regional Catalonian government and in the coming years they will do it according to the children’s school calendar."
Pique, whose split from Shakira came amid rumours that he had cheated on her, is now dating 23-year-old Clara Chia.
He made 397 appearances for the Catalan giants Barcelona, scoring 29 times. He also won 102 international caps for Spain.
Shakira recently opened up about the split, calling it her “darkest moment”.
