Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has released a statement over the media coverage of his split from popstar Shakira.
Pique has been in the headlines non-stop since he and Shakira announced on June 4 that they were splitting up after 12 years together.
The statement read:
“Since Shakira and Gerard Pique confirmed their separation in a joint statement on June 4, there have been various rumours and pieces of unverified information published about the player, his family and his personal and, therefore, private life.
“These reports and images not only damage his honour and image, but they also seriously infringe on the rights of his children, whose safety and protection are his primary concern.
“The surveillance by some media and paparazzi has been continuous, forcing our client to alter his daily routine with the sole purpose of protecting his children, his family and those close to him.
“Gerard Pique has always respected the activity of the media and their right to publish information, and he is fully aware of the fundamental role the media plays in our society.
“However, in recent weeks there have been intrusions that go beyond the limits of legality, so our client has been obliged to request restraining orders and take legal action against those who are disrupting his family life and violating the rights of his children, since Gerard Pique’s sole objective is to ensure their welfare and restore their rights to privacy, security and peace of mind.
“Through this press release, our client would like to thank the respect and informative rigour that has been shown by some media outlets and he trusts that everything will be resolved in the best possible way, with common sense prevailing.”
